Disney+ has given viewers the first look at an upcoming biographical movie about Giannis Antetokounmpo. Entitled Rise, the film focuses on the family and career of the Milwaukee Bucks star, as well as that of his brothers, fellow Milwaukee Bucks player Thanasis and Los Angeles Lakers‘ Kostas. Together, the Antetokounmpo brothers became the first trio of siblings to secure an NBA championship.
The film begins with the emigration of Vera and Charles Antetokounmpo from Nigeria to Greece. Living in Athens, the brothers would sneak away to play basketball with a local youth league, revealing their extraordinary basketball abilities. Giannis entered the NBA draft in 2013, starting himself and his brothers on the path to being recognized as world-class athletes.
Directed by Akin Omotoso with Bernie Goldmann, Giannis is executive producing the project. Brothers Uche and Ral Agada portray the young Giannis and Thanasis, while Jaden Osimuwa plays Kostas. Additional members of the cast include Elijah Sholanke Dayo Okeniyi, Yetide Badaki, Manish Dayal and Taylor Nichols.
“I am thrilled and honored that Disney+ is bringing my family’s story to people all over the world,” Giannis said. “My hope is that it will inspire those in similar circumstances to keep the faith, stay true to their goals and not to give up on striving for a better life.”
Rise will premiere on Disney+ on June 24.
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