To say that Giannis Antetokounmpo, the standout player for the Milwaukee Bucks, had an exciting summer would be an understatement. In addition to signing a huge contract extension with the Milwaukee Bucks, the former MVP of back-to-back seasons teamed up with one of the best point guards in the NBA right now, Damian Lillard, to create a superstar duo unlike anything we’ve ever seen.

It’s nearly impossible to forget that Antetokounmpo needed offseason surgery to fix a persistent problem with his knee. This was, more than anything else, the main reason Giannis was unable to carry out his typical offseason program.

Giannis Antetokounmpo, a star with the Milwaukee Bucks, discusses his offseason injury

Giannis claims that the offseason he endured this past summer was among the worst he has ever experienced. This guy is passionate about basketball, so you can imagine how difficult it was for him to miss so much play.

Antetokounmpo stated, “I just want to play games,” according to Jim Owczarski of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. “Due to knee surgery, I was a couch potato this offseason.” ate a tonne of popcorn, Lays chips, and Doritos, and watched a tonne of Netflix. I was immobile. It was the first time in my career that I had been unable to play for the Greek national team and contribute to their improvement, or whatever the situation may have been. Maybe even worse—who knows. I simply make every effort to be available. I may not be at my best, but I’m still here and available. I try not to take things for granted and will play the game if I can.

Giannis performed precisely that on Thursday in the Orlando Magic game. With a right midfoot sprain, he was originally doubtful if he could play, but the seven-time All-Star persevered despite the discomfort.

Though he led the Bucks to a 118-114 victory with a game-high 37 points, 10 rebounds, and six assists, he appeared to be in ideal health. Not bad for a person who is having trouble with his foot?