Giannis Antetokounmpo has quickly embraced the culture surrounding the Miami Heat, describing the experience of joining the organization as something that has made him feel “alive again.”
In an exclusive interview with The Athletic’s Eric Nehm, Antetokounmpo explained what has stood out to him since arriving in Miami, pointing specifically to the team’s togetherness, communication and intensity.
“Togetherness. How serious they are. Communication,” Antetokounmpo said. “Yesterday, we had a meeting. It was probably one of the most exciting, entertaining meetings. There were two Navy SEALs, and they were telling their story, and we were doing push-ups and s—.”
The two-time MVP said the experience has convinced him that Miami’s well-known Heat Culture is genuine.
“It’s real, and I love every f—ing second of it. I’m not even gonna lie. It gives me goosebumps. It’s almost like being alive again,” Antetokounmpo said.
Antetokounmpo said he first saw the team’s mentality during a September mini-camp in Los Angeles organized by Bam Adebayo and Davion Mitchell. He has continued to notice the same approach since officially joining Miami for training camp at Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton.
“But no, it’s definitely real,” Antetokounmpo said. “Communication. Hard work. Competition. Being direct. The expectations that I have for you, make sure you do your job. It’s real. It’s very real. Guys are playing hard, playing fast in practice. It’s real.”
The seven-time All-NBA selection also made an immediate impact when he made his Heat debut in the preseason opener against the Toronto Raptors on October 3.
Antetokounmpo played only 14:07 but finished with nine points on 3-of-3 shooting, four rebounds and seven assists. Every one of his assists led to a made three-pointer as Miami opened the game with 41 points in the first quarter and took a 76-55 halftime lead.
Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra highlighted the attention Antetokounmpo commands inside, comparing the passing opportunities created by his presence to Magic Johnson and pointing to his “gravitational pull” in the paint.
Miami ultimately defeated Toronto 129-105, shooting 49% from the field and assisting on 31 of its 42 made shots.
