WHEN EDWARD MET GIANNIS
It might seem like an unlikely pairing, but once you get past the difference in height and physicality, as well as of points of origin, the coming together of the man they call the “Greek Freak,” Giannis Antetokounmpo, and the “Cheerful Charmer of Germany,” Edward Barber, is one that ultimately makes sense.
Aside from being superstars in their own right, they both have a strong sense of family, which strengthens their interface from arguable strangers to, as male friendships are bound to be, brothers.
Taking place 9751 km. away from Philippine shores, Giannis and Edward meet at the area of Kifissia in Athens, Greece as orchestrated by the top-selling and uncompromising fragrance brand, Str8. Despite easily towering over Edward, the basketball superstar and the young actor clicked instantly, where the latter even interviewed the former for an exclusive cover story in this issue. In their conversation, we get to know more about the NBA’s Most Valuable Player, including his beginnings and where else he intends to power through in life and the game.
While a lot of it was work and serious things, the day ended on a typically Filipino note—with humor—as the Philippine contingent gifted Giannis Antetokounmpo with the Barrel Man from Baguio, which instantly drew a rollick of laughter once the surprise was revealed. A fitting punctuation, the star player revealed that hopefully one day, he gets to visit the country again and experience the culture in basketball and beyond.
Consider that something to look forward to, but until then, this is but a taste of more things to come.