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Heat star Giannis’ ‘intimidating’ Pat Riley confession adds to Godfather lore appeared first on ClutchPoints. Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Pat Riley is undoubtedly one of the most obvious godfathers of basketball, and arguably the biggest reason behind the continued success the Miami Heat have had in the modern era. The Heat team president is now looking to kickstart another dynasty with Giannis Antetokounmpo as the focal point, and even the Greek Freak does not appear to be unfazed by Riley’s legendary status.
Giannis recently revealed details about Riley’s ‘intimidating’ nature, claiming that ‘it was a different feeling’ to actually meet the former Los Angeles Lakers and Heat head coach, per a post on X by Heat Central.
“I call him Mr. Pat. He told me ‘just call me Pat’ nah, he’s a legend. You got to show people like that respect. I went to his office. It’s a different feeling. Kind of intimidating,” he said.
Giannis joined the Heat after being traded alongside Bobby Portis in exchange for multiple stars, most prominently Tyler Herro and Kel’el Ware alongside draft compensation. And well, the former Milwaukee Bucks ace is willing to do everything he can to make the Heat bonafide title contenders.
“He’s a good guy to have in your corner and I’m excited to play for him. I’m excited that I’m here. I’m going to do whatever I can to help this team be great,” he said.
There is little doubt that Riley is one of the biggest legends associated with basketball even at the age of 81. Himself a lottery pick in the 1967 NBA Draft, Riley had a successful playing career for the Lakers and won the championship in 1972. However, it was as a coach and a front office maverick that Riley found most success.
He helped the Lakers to the 1980 championship as an assistant, and then won five NBA championships as a head coach for the Lakers and the Heat, the last coming in 2006 with Dwyane Wade and Shaquille O’Neal as their best players.
Now, with the Heat chasing LeBron James’ signature as well, they look all set to enter a new era with Giannis leading the charge for years to come.
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