Is Thanasis Antetokounmpo only in the league because of his brother? Amid the Bucks’ early-season struggles, that question has become more and more frequent in the community. But amid growing criticism towards Thanasis, Cavaliers rookie Emoni Bates stood up for the 6’6″ forward and shot down the notion that he’s undeserving of his roster spot.

“Y’all quick to call somebody trash. Y’all don’t even know what dude been through and what he had to do to get her,” wrote Bates on Instagram. “He’s probably one of the best locker room guys. He keeps the energy up, makes sure to do his job everyday without complaint like lol. Y’all. beso quick to judge somebody for some clout it’s sad bro fr we gotta do better.”

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After beginning his career in the G-League in 2013, Thanasis joined his first NBA team two years later. During that season, he played in just two games for the Knicks and scored six points in six minutes. Following a brief overseas stint (first with Spain, then Greece), Thanasis signed a contract with the Bucks, with whom he has remained ever since.

Although there isn’t any evidence to suggest that Milwaukee acquired him solely for Giannis, Thanasis has never been a consistent member of the lineup, and some supporters believe it is a complete waste of money to keep him in the team.