'Super happy': Giannis surprises three young Milwaukee athletes

GLENDALE (CBS 58) – Three young basketball players with the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Milwaukee thought they were just at a press conference for a shopping spree at Kohl’s, but they were surprised by their role model, Milwaukee Bucks Superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo.  

The three kids are part of the Emerging Athletes Basketball League with the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Milwaukee. Thursday’s surprise is a moment 11-year-old Tatiana Edwards won’t forget.

“I was like super happy and surprised. Just crazy,” Edwards said.

The kids received headphones, a speaker and a gift card. Giannis took the three kids shopping at Kohl's Thursday.

“Millions of kids look up to not just me, but a lot of NBA players and Bucks players,” Giannis said.

The humble Milwaukee Bucks player and role model tries to lead by example.

“On a daily basis, try to do the right thing because a lot of kids are looking,” Giannis said. “You've got to realize the stage you're on once you get to the NBA and use it to better people and help people.”

The three Boys & Girls Club members were picked for the event because of their outstanding academics, sportsmanship, and leadership with the Emerging Athletics Basketball League.

“For these kids to get the chance to meet one of their real-life heroes was just priceless,” President and CEO of Boys & Girls Club of Greater Milwaukee Kathy Thornton-Bias said.

 “To meet someone they idolize -- it's monumental for them,” Emerging Athletes Basketball League Program Manager Jamar Wills said. “It gives them hope.”

Giving hope to kids, like 13-year-old Andre Moore who met Giannis Thursday. The teenager dreams of becoming an NBA player himself and shooting hoops with the Greek Freak.

“I just hope he's still playing in the NBA when I come,” Moore said.