Author: lehang

George Strait’s Captivating Performance of “She’ll Leave You With a Smile”

On a crisp evening beneath a blanket of twinkling stars, country music icon George Strait graced the stage for a performance that would linger in the hearts of those fortunate enough to witness it. As the audience settled into their seats, the air buzzed with anticipation, and the sounds of excited chatter faded. The moment the first chords of “She’ll Leave You With a Smile” resonated through the speakers, a collective hush fell over the crowd, signaling the start of something special.

There are few artists who can evoke such a profound emotional connection as George Strait. The King of Country, a man whose music has shaped the genre for decades, has the rare ability to captivate his audience, transporting them into the very soul of his songs. As the opening notes of “She’ll Leave You With a Smile” filled the venue, there was a palpable shift in the energy of the night. Strait, dressed in his trademark cowboy hat and boots paired with a timeless plaid shirt, stood as the epitome of classic country charm. His appearance was simple yet undeniably authentic, a true reflection of his enduring appeal.

From the very first strum of his guitar, George Strait’s voice filled the space with a warmth and depth that seemed to reach into the very core of the listeners. His voice, as rich and smooth as ever, carried the weight of the lyrics, allowing the heartfelt narrative of “She’ll Leave You With a Smile” to take on new layers of meaning. The song tells the story of love’s inevitable heartbreak, but also of the lingering sweetness that love leaves behind. The poignancy of the lyrics was matched only by Strait’s emotional delivery, which captured both the sadness and the beauty within the song’s message.

As the music flowed, the audience found themselves swept away. Couples in the crowd instinctively swayed in unison, holding each other close as the words resonated in their hearts. Some listeners closed their eyes, lost in their own reflections, each person undoubtedly finding their own connection to the song’s powerful themes of love, loss, and the bittersweet nature of memories. In that moment, the vast concert arena seemed to disappear, replaced by a shared intimacy between the artist and his fans. It was a testament to George Strait’s unmatched ability to connect with his audience, making every performance feel as personal as the very songs he sings.

The atmosphere of the evening was further enhanced by the subtle elegance of the stage design. The lighting, bathed in warm amber hues, complemented the tender mood of the song, casting a soft glow across the venue. In the background, visuals of tranquil sunsets and endless open roads played, adding a layer of nostalgia and wistfulness that perfectly mirrored the lyrics. The imagery on screen transported listeners to a place where time seemed to stand still, where memories of lost love could be relived, if only for a few fleeting moments. The combination of music, lighting, and visuals created a powerful sensory experience, one that was both intimate and expansive.

As the song neared its end, a hush fell over the audience, the final notes lingering in the air like a distant memory. The emotional weight of the performance hung in the atmosphere, and for a brief moment, the world outside the venue seemed irrelevant. Then, as if on cue, the crowd erupted into a thunderous ovation, their cheers echoing into the cool night air. George Strait, ever the humble figure, tipped his hat with a smile, acknowledging the love and admiration of his fans. That smile, so familiar and so sincere, was the perfect way to end the performance, leaving the audience feeling as though they had just shared a beautiful, intimate moment with the man who had given them so much through his music.

In the moments that followed, fans slowly began to file out of the venue, but the impact of the performance stayed with them. There is something truly magical about witnessing an artist at the height of their craft, delivering a song that resonates with such authenticity. George Strait’s ability to convey emotion, to turn a song into an experience, is what has kept him at the top of the country music world for so long. His performance that night wasn’t just a concert—it was a memory in the making, one that would be cherished by all who had been there.

For many, “She’ll Leave You With a Smile” is a song that encapsulates the very essence of country music: the joy and sorrow of life, the inevitability of change, and the beauty of love. George Strait, with his signature voice and unmatched stage presence, reminded everyone that night why he has earned his place as one of the greatest country artists of all time. He didn’t just sing the song; he lived it, breathed it, and shared it with his audience in a way that few can.

As the final notes faded into the night, the warmth of the evening remained in the hearts of all who had witnessed it. George Strait had once again proven that his talent goes beyond just making music; it’s about creating unforgettable moments, moments that leave an indelible mark on the hearts of his fans. “She’ll Leave You With a Smile” may have ended, but the magic of the performance would last forever.

Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo is getting into venture capital, and one of his first investments is in women’s basketball.

Antetokounmpo’s Build Your Legacy Ventures is backing Unrivaled, the 3-on-3 professional women’s basketball league that plays during the WNBA’s off-season. Games will start in January with six teams and players including star Breanna Stewart, who’s also one of the league’s founders.

The league, which will pay each of its 36 players a guaranteed $250,000 salary for the eight-week season, will tip off for its inaugural campaign in January.

Antetokounmpo joins a growing list of professional athletes entering the venture capital game, including NBA superstar Kevin Durant and tennis icon Serena Williams. Due to the immense amount of wealth being generated by sports stars via earnings, with Antetokounmpo’s last two contracts totaling more than $400 million, the path toward venture capital investment has never been clearer.

The formation of the Build Your Legacy Ventures fund will follow on from Antetokounmpo’s personal portfolio. He already has stakes in MLB’s Milwaukee Brewers and MLS’s Nashville SC.

“This fund is not just about capital,” Antetokounmpo said in a statement. “It’s about forging partnerships and opening my network.”

The 29-year-old clearly feels the best way to do this is through Unrivaled. On Wednesday, Unrivaled unveiled the majority of the rosters for its six teams with 34 of 36 total players announced. The league still has two “wildcard” spots available, and one place was likely reserved for Clark in case she changed her mind.

One of the best point guards in the NBA right now is Damian Lillard. In addition to being a seven-time All-Star, Lillard has also won the Rookie of the Year and the NBA All-Star team seven times. Lillard is also one of the best shooters in NBA history.

However, Lillard has yet to establish his legacy and has yet to win an NBA title. The seven-time All-Star made news earlier this year when he was finally traded to the Milwaukee Bucks as part of a historic three-team deal that included the Portland Trail Blazers, Milwaukee Bucks, and Phoenix Suns.

After teaming up with two-time NBA MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo and NBA champion Khris Middleton, Lillard has given himself a great chance to win an NBA championship by moving to Milwaukee.

Considering all the hype surrounding Lillard lately, have you ever wondered what kind of car the NBA superstar drives? Well, wonder no more. Damian Lillard’s incredible $646,000 car collection is showcased in this article.

Before joining the Bucks, Lillard was a prolific player for the Trail Blazers. While playing for them, the All-NBA team member actually made a lot of money. In addition to his successful basketball career, Lillard has also made money from his burgeoning music career. Celebrity Net Worth estimates Lillard’s net worth at $100 million. With Lillard’s wealth, it’s no surprise that he’s been able to live a lavish lifestyle, including buying a few expensive cars and lavish homes.

Lillard seems to be a Bentley enthusiast, having amassed two. Despite this, he still owns a single Cadillac Escalade in his garage despite being a Bentley enthusiast. Of course, Lillard’s wife, Kay’la Hanson, may like both.

4. Lamborghini Urus

The Lamborghini Urus is one of the fastest SUVs in the world. This comes as the world’s most luxurious supercar maker is betting on a large, five-door family car with plenty of ground clearance and off-road capability. In principle, this is a clash of goals, but in practice, this is a scenario rich in potential.

It is the only car in the showroom that can tow a trailer and carry more than two people. Although its $250,000 price tag puts it out of reach for most ordinary people and its interior isn’t particularly special for such a large sum, there is currently no other SUV like the 2023 Urus.

3. Xe Cadillac Escalade

You can’t go wrong with the Cadillac Escalade when it comes to fuel economy, luxury, and driving comfort. This spacious vehicle is one of the longest in its class. Priced at $76,295, this car is definitely worth adding to Lillard’s collection, as it’s the perfect vehicle for cruising the streets of Portland or Milwaukee.

The Cadillac Escalade’s 6.2L VVT V8 engine, which produces 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, is no slouch. What’s more, the Cadillac Escalade has a 10-speed automatic transmission that allows it to reach a top speed of 130 mph. It also has a 0-60 mph time of just 6 seconds. Despite being the cheapest car in Lillard’s garage, the seven-time All-Star most likely chose it out of necessity.

2. Bentley Bentayga

1. Bentley Continental GT

Even though Lillard already owns a Bentley, he was sure to add another to his collection. The seven-time All-NBA player made an exception for the Bentley Continental GT, which lives up to expectations, even though the majority of the cars in his garage are SUVs. With a retail price of $307,225, this lavish sedan is certainly the most expensive car in Lillard’s collection.

The Bentley Continental GT is powered by a 4.0L twin-turbo V8 that produces 626 horsepower and 664 lb-ft of torque, which is a match for an NBA player like the most recent Milwaukee Buck. The expensive car accelerates and accelerates without any problems, just like Lillard. It takes just 4.3 seconds to go from 0 to 60 mph. Plus, it has a top speed of 208 mph. Lillard will have no trouble driving around the city in luxury with the Bentley Continental GT as it is ideal for city driving.

That being said, that’s all the information we have so far about Damian Lillard’s $646,000 car collection.

Greek From Greece Cafe Cuisine is teaming up with 2019 NBA MVP and All-Star Giannis Antetokounmpo and his family to introduce Greek cuisine and culture to America.

Affectionately dubbed the “Greek Freak” for his unique blend of ball-handling skills, size, and speed, Antetokounmpo was born in Athens, Greece, to Nigerian parents. He resonated with GFG Cafe Cuisine’s authentic flavors and strong family principles.

“What truly impressed me is that GFG prioritizes family above all else,” Antetokounmpo stated in a company press release. “They share the same values as my family and me, such as loyalty and enduring relationships. They embody delightful flavors, enticing aromas, and a vibrant culture that both my brothers and I cannot resist.”

“We serve our customers ‘the Greek Way,’ just as we would our family at home,” said Drosos. “All our dishes are crafted exclusively from 776 authentic Greek products sourced from the finest olive groves, citrus orchards, vineyards, wheat fields, and beehives. We understand good food, and we’re here to share it with the world.”

In the first half of 2020, GFG Cafe Cuisine announced the launch of its inaugural franchise location in Philadelphia, expanded its presence across Long Island and Stamford, New York, with 31 new outlets, and merged and rebranded its largest competitor in Manhattan.

With these new openings, GFG Cafe Cuisine will boast over 41 locations, reinforcing its status as a leader in the Greek food industry. The concept anticipates that by year’s end, more than 100 units will either be operational or under development, thanks to additional deals in the pipeline.

“They are a freight train speeding across the country,” remarked Dan Rowe, founder and CEO of Fransmart, GFG Cafe Cuisine’s franchising partner. “GFG continues to secure deals, construct, and launch locations, even during this challenging time for the restaurant industry. Their team is highly driven and is creating remarkable opportunities for franchisees.”

GFG Cafe Cuisine is actively seeking experienced multi-unit foodservice operators and exploring potential markets both domestically and internationally, according to Rowe.

“For years, I’ve been searching for a way to return to Greece at any moment, and now I’ve found it,” Antetokounmpo added.

“GFG allows me to share with America everything we cherish about Greek daily life, which knows no limits. For many years, America has given my family and me opportunities to experience and appreciate diverse cultures. Now it’s time for us to give back. I’m confident that America will embrace our culture and flavors as part of their lifestyle.”

Giannis Antetokounmpo, known as “The Greek Freak,” exemplifies the journey from poverty to success. Born and raised in Athens, Greece, he and his family faced numerous challenges and hardships.

From living as an undocumented child on the streets of Greece to achieving remarkable success in the NBA, Giannis’s story is an inspiring testament to overcoming adversity.

Born in Athens on December 6, 1994, Giannis made a pivotal decision to declare for the 2013 NBA draft. On July 30, 2013, he signed a rookie contract with the Milwaukee Bucks, where he has played throughout his entire professional career, leading the team to its first NBA championship since 1971 in 2021.

His remarkable journey extends beyond his athletic achievements, showcasing his resilience in rising above racism as an African immigrant in Greece, bringing his family to America in 2014, and coping with the sudden loss of his father in 2017.

Giannis Antetokounmpo faced daily struggles during his childhood and lacked a clear sense of identity.

His parents, Charles and Veronica Antetokounmpo, emigrated from Nigeria to Greece, but their immigrant status made it challenging for them to secure stable employment, trapping them in a cycle of poverty.

Ultimately, their situation led to severe financial difficulties, with the primary goal of securing money and food for the family.

In an interview with ESPN, Giannis reflected on his early experiences: “I’ve been selling things for as long as I can remember, since I was six or seven years old.

“I was always out trying to help my parents by selling watches, glasses, CDs, DVDs, and anything I could find. I did this until I turned 17 because I had no other choice. I was the best seller during that time.

“My secret was never giving up. I would keep asking people until they bought something. Being young and charming helped too.”

Growing up in extreme poverty, Antetokounmpo felt he had nothing to lose, so he did everything possible to earn money for his family.

He shared a bed with his brothers, Thanasis, Alex, and Kostas, as they couldn’t afford a bigger home with more rooms.

Throughout their time there, they often feared eviction due to not having enough money for rent.

Unknown to many, Giannis initially dreamed of being a football player like his father.

When his coach Vasilis Xenakis encouraged him to join the basketball team, Giannis was uninterested, having no experience in the sport. The same was true for his siblings.

To motivate him, the coach offered the possibility of earning money: “I told him that if he gave basketball a try, he could potentially make some money to buy food,” Xenakis recalled.

He also promised to help Giannis find a football team if basketball didn’t work out. Eventually, that offer became unnecessary as they both recognized Giannis’s potential on the basketball court.

When the Antetokounmpo brothers started playing basketball, they often had to share a single pair of shoes for games.

At checkout, Giannis would pass his shoes to Thanasis and vice versa.

Giannis later told ESPN: “Those moments were beautiful. Overcoming struggles and seeing my family thriving now is unbelievable. I cherish those memories and appreciate having gone through those times.

“While we may not have had much money, we were happy. When challenges arose, we would gather in the same room, laugh, and have fun despite our difficulties. That definitely made us stronger.”

Today, Antetokounmpo is recognized as one of the greatest basketball players of all time.

Drafted into the NBA in 2013, the ‘Greek Freak’ has achieved significant success with the Milwaukee Bucks, winning an NBA title in 2021 and earning accolades like two league MVP awards and a finals MVP award.

Given its origins, the Antetokounmpo story is frequently celebrated as a source of inspiration.

Despite living in challenging economic conditions and sometimes struggling for food and shelter, Giannis never lost sight of his goals. He aimed to use basketball as a means to overcome difficulties and build a better life for himself and his family.

Giannis Antetokounmpo’s rise to success is a true testament to patience, passion, and determination. He has shown that there are no limits for those who believe in themselves and are willing to work hard to achieve their dreams.

Giannis Antetokounmpo, his fiancée Mariah Riddlesprigger, and their sons Liam and Maverick distributed essential items to local families in need on Milwaukee’s southwest side, with one child on Giannis’s shoulders and the other by his side.

Alongside numerous volunteers, the Antetokounmpo family handed out diapers and food at the Milwaukee Diaper Mission distribution event.

They were part of a large group of volunteers providing diapers, wipes, food, and other necessities at a drive-up event organized by Hayat Pharmacy, located at 807 W. Layton Ave.

“We wanted to organize this event to support families with the essentials they need just before the holidays and give back to the community,” said Meagan Johnson, co-founder of the Diaper Mission.

This event marked the conclusion of the BIG Give Back, an annual diaper and fund drive by the Charles Antetokounmpo Family Foundation benefiting the Milwaukee Diaper Mission.

“I feel fortunate to be able to provide my children with meals, diapers, and everything they need,” Riddlesprigger, who serves on the board of MDM, told the Journal Sentinel. “I just want to bless others and help them do the same. It’s important to assist others in caring for their families and alleviating some of their worries.”

The Milwaukee Diaper Mission initiative is supported by Giannis Antetokounmpo and his family.

Businesses like Culver’s and organizations such as Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin were involved in the event on Sunday.

They aimed to supply food and pain relief for 300 homes, along with providing 30,000 diapers.

Giannis Antetokounmpo, also known as “The Greek Freak”, is an admirable example of rising from a poor background. Born and raised in Athens, Greece, Giannis and his family went through many hardships and faced deprivation.

From growing up undocumented and impoverished on the streets of Greece to the dizzying heights of the NBA racking up eye-watering stats, the Antetokounmpo story has become an inspirational tale in how to defy the odds.

Giannis, born in Athens, on Dec. 6, 1994, would make a similar choice when he officially made himself eligible for the 2013 NBA draft. On July 30, 2013, he signed his rookie contract with the Milwaukee Bucks, where he’s played for throughout his entire professional career, leading the team to their first NBA championship since 1971 in 2021.

The Marvelous Journey goes beyond the power forward’s professional highlight reel, though, painting a picture of an athlete with unfathomable resilience, from rising above racism growing up as an African immigrant in Greece to bringing his family to America in 2014, and coping with the unexpected death of his father three years later in 2017.

Giannis Antetokounmpo, a basketball player, struggled daily to survive as a child and never had a distinct identity.

Charles and Veronica Antetokounmpo, his parents, left Nigeria to settle in Greece. Their status as immigrants made it difficult for them to find steady jobs, and without a steady job, they could not be named Greek citizens, binding them to a vicious circle.

In the end, their circumstances drove them into destitution. Procuring money and food for the family became their collective objective.

In an interview with ESPN, Giannis Antetokounmpo reflected on his early life, “I used to sell things since I can remember myself, since I was six or seven years old.

“I was always out of home trying as much as I could to help my mom and dad by selling watches, glasses, CDs, DVDs, and everything I could find. I was doing that until I turned 17 because I had to. I had no other choice. When I was selling all those things, I was the best seller.

“My secret was that I would never give up. I would continue asking people until I could get them to buy something. It also helped that I was young and sweet.”

Given Antetokounmpo lived in extreme poverty, he grew up thinking he had nothing to lose so he did everything he could to get money for his family.

He slept in the same bed as his brothers, Thanasis, Alex, and Kostas, as the family could not afford a bigger house with more rooms.

Through the years they lived there, there was always a fear that they would be kicked out of the house as they sometimes did not have enough money to pay the rent.

Unknown to most, Antetokounmpo wanted to be a football player like his dad.

So, when his coach Vasilis Xenakis tried to put him on the basketball team, Antetokounmpo had no interest in playing with them. He had no experience, and it wasn’t his dream sport. The same also happened with his siblings.

In order to entice him in, the Greek’s coach offered him with the possibility of money: “I told him that if he tried his luck with basketball, he could maybe make some money to buy food,” Xenakis said.

The coach also promised him that if basketball did not work, he would try to find a football team for young Giannis to join. Eventually the offered proved unnecessary; they both soon understood that Antetokounmpo could shine on the court.

When the Antetokounmpo brothers started playing basketball, there were matches that they could not play in together as they had to share the same pair of shoes.

When Giannis was checking out, he would give his shoes to his brother Thanasis to check in, and vice versa.

Giannis later shared to ESPN: “Those moments back then, they were beautiful, man. Going through the struggle and making it out of it and seeing your family doing good now it’s unbelievable. I remember those moments, and I’m happy I went through those times.

“We might not have had a lot of money, but at least we were happy. When we had problems, we would gather in the same room and have fun laughing, despite the difficulties we were going through. That for sure made us stronger.

Now Antetokounmpo is one of the greatest basketball players ever.

Drafted to the NBA in 2013, the man known as the ‘Greek Freak’ has gone on to become an NBA title-winning champion with the Milwaukee Bucks (2021) as well as accruing a list of accolades that include being a two-time league MVP and a finals MVP.

Given its origins the Antetokounmpo story is often cited as a source of inspiration.

Antetokounmpo’s family lived in difficult economic conditions and sometimes struggled to have enough food and shelter. However, Giannis did not give up and always aimed towards his goal. He sought to use basketball as a means to overcome difficulties and create a better life for himself and his family.

The success and rise of Giannis Antetokounmpo are a clear testament to patience, passion, and determination. He has proven that there are no limits to those who believe in themselves and are willing to work hard to achieve their dreams.

As the stage lights bathe the legendary lineup in a golden glow, the first chords of My Back Pages echo through the venue, sending shivers down the spines of an awe-struck audience. The synergy between Bob Dylan, Roger McGuinn, Tom Petty, Neil Young, Eric Clapton, and George Harrison is palpable, each bringing their signature touch to the timeless classic. Gasps ripple through the crowd as Dylan’s poignant lyrics come alive, carried by the unique blend of voices and instruments. It’s more than a performance—it’s a moment etched into musical history, leaving the audience in a state of euphoric reverence.

There was a hell of an anniversary celebration going on at Madison Square Garden in 1992. In the city where he got his start, the normally private Bob Dylan was staging a massive concert to recognise his three decades as an artist. It was a rare nostalgic moment for Dylan, and a parade of rock royalty came out to congratulate him.

It’s the kind of lineup that boggles the mind: former collaborators like The Band, George Harrison, and Tom Petty rubbed elbows with famous admirers, including Eric Clapton, Neil Young, Johnny Cash, Stevie Wonder, and Pearl Jam, among many others. Even the below-the-line names are legendary: a band that included greats like Jim Keltner, G. E. Smith, and Booker T. and the MGs.

The concert was supposed to be a happy occasion, but now it tends to be remembered for one infamous moment. Singer Sinead O’Connor was one of the many Dylan fans on hand to perform, but just two weeks before, O’Connor made headlines when she ripped up a picture of the Pope on Saturday Night Live. O’Connor was booed by the Garden crowd, and in a picture that continues to live on in pop culture, Kris Kristofferson went on stage to comfort O’Connor. She would sing just one song, plus a snippet of Bob Marley’s ‘War’, before leaving the stage.

It’s a shame that one ugly moment mars what was otherwise a celebratory night. June Carter and Johnny Cash duetted on ‘It Ain’t Me Babe’, Wonder took on ‘Blowin’ in the Wind’, Young whipped up a fiery version of ‘All Along the Watchtower’, and George Harrison made an ultra-rare live stage appearance singing ‘Absolutely Sweet Marie’.

Before the grand finale of ‘Knockin’ On Heaven’s Door’, some of the concert’s biggest names came together to trade verses on ‘My Back Pages’, the classic cut from Another Side of Bob Dylan. Roger McGuinn led a very Byrds-like version of the track, recalling the band’s cover from 1967 that helped make the song an all-time great. Petty and Young helped cap off the first chorus before each taking a verse of their own.

Clapton takes the first guitar solo before almost missing out on his verse. Initially, it looks like Clapton defers to Dylan before rushing to the microphone a few beats too late, picking things up smoothly once the measure returns to the one. It’s only then that Dylan steps up to croak out the fifth verse, and since it’s his song, one would think that the proceedings would end there. But even Dylan defers to Harrison for the final verse: you try keeping a Beatle from taking a song’s final part.

Check out ‘My Back Pages’ from the 30th-anniversary celebration down below.

Milwaukee Bucks superman Giannis Antetokounmpo has made a few headlines in recent weeks. First he led his team to the second annual NBA Cup Championship with a 26 PT, 19 REB, 10 AST performance. Then he broke Shaq’s record for most games scoring 20-plus on 50% shooting–26 contests and counting. Thursday revealed the first round of All-Star fan voting with, guess who, Giannis leading all players for a second consecutive year, at 1,710,630 votes.

Dec 17, 2024; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) celebrates with the most valuable player and championship trophies after winning the Emirates NBA Cup championship game against the Oklahoma City Thunder at T-Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images

Despite all this, his MVP odds are up to +1200 at some places. Is now the time to fire off a bid for the twice-crowned champ?

At a market consensus of -115 and +122, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Nikola Jokic are the clear-cut favorites–make no mistake about it. Giannis trails the competition in holistic metrics like plus-minus, net rating, and player impact rating (PIE), and the Bucks sit just two games above .500 (17-15).

While all of this is true, traditional stats still heavily influence voting, and in that area, Giannis’ has a strong profile: his 32.4 PPG (1st), 11.7 RPG (7th) and 6.0 APG (29th) offer the best challenge to Joker’s 31.0, 13.2 and 9.7. The Bucks big man has a legitimate case. For MVP bettors, is +1200 too much to pass up?

Jan 29, 2024; Denver, Colorado, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) controls the ball under pressure from Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic (15) and forward Peyton Watson (8) in the fourth quarter at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports

How Advanced Stats Hurt Giannis’ Case–And Why They Underestimate His Value 

The best argument for giving Thanasis’ big brother a third trophy lies in what might seem to be his greatest weakness versus the field. It relies on the fact that 1) the Bucks aren’t as good as other stars’ teams and 2) that  Giannis’ advanced stats are not as impressive because his team relies on him so heavily. To be halfway decent, they need to live and breathe through Giannis. While the same could be said for almost every superstar’s squad, it is especially true of Milwaukee.

Naturally, team-centric metrics for individual performance like plus-minus and net rating will be better when good players play for good teams.

Take the plus-minus figures for the six main MVP candidates according to betting odds:

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander 12.2
Jason Tatum                     9.3
Nikola Jokic                      9.2
Karl Anthony-Towns         7.1
Victor Wembanyama        4.6
Giannis Antetokounmpo  1.3.

Now consider the win-loss records of each player’s team:

SGA, Thunder 29-5

Tatum, Celtics 26-9

KAT, Knicks 24-11

Joker, Nuggets 19-14

Giannis, Bucks 17-15

Wemby, Spurs 18-16.

In the MVP conversation, win-loss record inevitably exerts sizable sway on voters. Yes, team performance is due in great part to the performance of its best players; yes, great players elevate the roster around them. And, yes, “team” stat or not, Shai leads OKC’s second best player, Jalen Williams, by 5-6 points in both plus-minus and net rating. An NBA cheat code, he is simply having an incredible season by both advanced and traditional measures.

But consider: While Derrick white and Jason Tatum share very similar numbers in the above categories, but there is little doubt about who belongs in the MVP race.

Bottom line, it is important to understand how certain statistics incorporate an entire roster’s performance. It would be ridiculously superficial to take one look at plus-minus figures and dismiss Giannis from consideration.

Giannis benefits from PIE vs Net Rating and Plus-Minus 

Net rating tells a similarly exaggerated story:

SGA 17.0

Tatum 12.3

Jokic 11.0

KAT 9.9

Wemby 6.0

Giannis 2.7.
But let’s now examine PIE, another metric that attempts to capture player value relative to collective data. Player impact rating represents the ratio of individual contributions to everything that happened during a player’s time on the floor. (Formula here.) A significant distinction from plus-minus and net rating is that it specifically incorporates individual statistics, not just what happened while the individual was involved.

Essentially, PIE measures how much “stuff” a player accounts for. This allows it to better isolate superstar-level impact and workload from team ability.

Here is how MVP contenders match up:

Giannis 21.3

Jokic 20.7

SGA 20.3

Wemby 18.1

KAT 17.6

Tatum 16.9.
When you think about it, the change in rankings make sense. The Bucks have only one other All-Star level player in Damian Lillard. On both ends of the court, Giannis assumes the lion’s share of responsibility. Jokic is in much the same shoes in Denver. San Antonio runs through Wemby. Meanwhile, the Knicks and Celtics are two stellar teams with multiple options.

A look at usage rates vindicates this narrative. At 36.0%, Giannis is far and away the most heavily utilized of the group, with Tatum (29.9%) and KAT (26.2%) consuming the lowest number of possessions. Wemby and Joker register usage rates of 31.8% and 30.0%. Shai is second on the list at 32.5%.

Dec 17, 2024; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) dribbles against Milwaukee Bucks guard Damian Lillard (0) during the 3rd quarter of the Emirates NBA Cup championship game at T-Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Candice Ward-Imagn Images

And that’s the thing, isn’t it? Within the above observations, what once again stands out like a sore thumb–or a blazing beacon–is Shai. The Thunder point guard checks both boxes. He is the best player on a really good team, and he handles a huge amount of responsibility. He is the odds-on MVP favorite for a reason. At 31.0 PPG, 5.4 RPG, and 6.1 APG his traditional numbers are aesthetically pleasing. His lockdown defense means that Giannis backers cannot point to that area as an advantage over Shai.

On the offensive end of the floor, Giannis could help his efficiency rating by shooting better on threes (22.2% on less than an attempt per game) and free throws (60.3%, 11.3 attempts). As it is, his effective field goal and true shooting percentages do not stand out from the others’ despite his raw success (60.6% from the field).

Two-Time Winner Is Worth Considering As a Relative Longshot

What’s relevant to bettors, though, isn’t whether SGA, Jokic, or Giannis will win. It’s about playing the price relative to probability. At this point in the season, the two frontrunners have unappealingly short odds. While justly favored, it doesn’t make sense to me that a Shai or Joker MVP is nearly 12 times as likely as a third for the Greek Freak.

For example, no one wants players hurt, but injuries happen. Historically, Giannis is a better candidate for that than the other two, but his odds are also way longer, meaning he doesn’t have to win all that often to make it a profitable play. At odds of +1200, the break-even point dips to 7.69%.

Mar 8, 2022; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) moves to the basket against Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) and forward Isaiah Roby (22) during the second half at Paycom Center. Milwaukee won 142-115. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-USA TODAY Sports

Currently, he has a strong hold on that number three spot in the pecking order, with Tatum next up a consensus +2200. In terms of record, the only really uphill battle he has is against SGA and OKC. To be blunt: he doesn’t have a chance of catching him in that department.

But what if the Bucks find enough of themselves, which is how they seemed to be trending when they won the Cup, to finish with 48 wins and fourth in the Eastern Conference standings? When Jokic won his second MVP in 2022, the Nuggets went 48-34 and ended up sixth in the Western Conference. Maybe–just maybe–Giannis has a worthwhile shot.

Breaking Down Giannis’ Odds in the MVP Market as a Whole

At his consensus price of +1100, Giannis’ implied odds of winning the award are 8.33%. Implied odds are not the same thing as actual probability, due to the “vig” charged by sportsbooks. Instead, it is the frequency at which an event must occur for a wager to break even.

In this case, the question is whether Giannis stands a better chance to win than the 10 to 1 odds he’s being priced at.

For context, comparing our man’s odds to the total implied probability of every candidate in the general market, as listed on the Action Network’s odds tracker, gives him a market share of just 6.87%.( If we assumed every price were accurate, this would be his actual chance of winning.) Although this is not a measure of the odds needed to turn a profit (still 8.33% at +1100), it is a useful tool of comparison. Does he really merit such a modest piece of the pie?

By contrast, Jokic has implied odds of 45.05% (37.13% market share). Shai lists at 53.49%, a 44.09% share.

There may be significant variation in price between books, but the consensus figures help gauge what the market thinks about each player, and whether skewed public opinion provides a betting opportunity.

Dec 20, 2024; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) drives to the basket against the Cleveland Cavaliers during the first quarter at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images

One Scenario Where a Giannis MVP Ticket Ages Extremely Well 

Here’s how it happens. SGA and the Thunder cruise to the one-seed. Because they don’t have much to play for down the stretch, Shai isn’t required to put up 40 points every other night and his numbers take a dip. In the second half of the season, Jalen Williams continues to grow, as does their already potent two-man game, and  production becomes just a bit more balanced.

The Nuggets, who have shown weakness this season and anyway don’t care that much about the regular season, continue at their current 47-win pace and finish with 45-50. Joker’s eye-candy stats, especially his PPG as he looks to score less often to conserve energy and get everyone in rhythm for the playoffs, deflate a little.

Meanwhile, Giannis hoists his team on his back like the hulk to secure the fourth, or even the fifth seed to avoid ending up sixth and playing one of the big three in the top-heavy Eastern Conference in the first round. His counting stats are on steroids. Think 33, 12, and 6 shooting over 60%. (A minimal uptick from where they are now, but the others’ have decreased.) His explosive style only fuels the narrative. Milwaukee will probably lose in the second round, but hey, it’s is a regular season award.

Is that scenario, or a similar one, likely to parlay itself into existence? Probably not. Does it have greater than an 8% chance of happening? Tough to say for certain, but it feels like the answer is yes. It’s hard to predict exactly how the season will play out. That works to the advantage of longer odds, like his.

Typically, futures markets are so juiced by the books that it can be hard wade through all the muck to find a decent play. With the options currently on the board for MVP, I would venture a May podium speech from Giannis is getting a better price than any other nominee.

The crowd erupted in astonished applause as two legends, Bob Dylan and Neil Young, stood side by side under the spotlight, their voices harmonizing for the first time in decades. Gasps turned into cheers as they performed an emotionally powerful version of “Helpless,” leaving the audience in awe. Fans swayed, some dabbing at their eyes, unable to fully grasp the historic moment unfolding before them. The raw intensity of their harmonies filled the air, a stirring testament to their unmatched artistry. When the final chord rang out, a standing ovation erupted like a thunderstorm.

Bob Dylan and Neil Young revisited the days of the Carter administration — specifically, the Carter Family — on Sunday with their first on-stage duet in 25 years, performing “Will the Circle Be Unbroken.”

Fans had long hoped for a collaboration during other stops on their European tour, including the massive show at London’s Hyde Park on Saturday. However, it wasn’t until the legendary rockers wrapped up their tour at Nowlan Park in Kilkenny, Ireland, that the performance finally came to life.

Young’s part of the show was streamed on his Archives subscriber service, but that didn’t mean that the duet was part of the broadcast: It came up 11 songs into Dylan’s 20-number set. Dylan performed it standing at the piano, as he does nearly every tune on tour now, while Young joined Dylan’s combo on an acoustic guitar. Although the performance wasn’t streamed, plenty of fans posted it on YouTube (see two view, above and below).

Writing about the show on Boblinks, attendee Colin Lacey described it as “a joyous mid-set duet” and added, “Bob’s singing was superb. The two giants meeting mid-stage to shake hands felt like a climax, but there was much more top-shelf Bob to come. … Dylan seemed to be loving it all, looked fit and sang like his life depended on it. One of the best outdoor Dylan shows I’ve seen — though not everyone agreed: on the way out of the stadium one attendee says, ‘Dylan has lost the plot.’ Hard to agree — at 78, he’s still amazing: more like the plot thickens.”

The last time Young and Dylan are believed to have sung together on stage was at New York’s Roseland Ballroom in October 1994, when they were also joined by Bruce Springsteen for a pair of Dylan classics.

Dylan is first known to have sung “Will the Circle Be Unbroken,” a folk and country music standard, live in 1961, and then again in 1996; surprisingly, given all the other traditional songs that he’s sprinkled into his sets over the years, this one never became a staple for him. Young has performed it a handful of times since 1995, with and without Willie Nelson as a duet partner.