Rise

In 1990, Charles and Vera Antetokounmpo are forced to leave their eldest son Francis behind in Nigeria as they move to Greece seeking a better life. They have no identification because visas are blocked by the political climate, so they must live in hiding. The family begins a long, uncertain journey in a foreign land.

The Antetokounmpos settle in Greece but struggle with ongoing immigration rules and documentation problems. Without proper papers, they live in hiding and fear deportation, their daily lives marked by uncertainty. The brothers grow up amid hardship while dreaming of stability.

By 2004 the family has four more sons and still no Greek citizenship due to jus sanguinis, leaving them at constant risk of deportation. Their Yoruba surname is anglicized to Antetokounmpo as bureaucratic processing continues after they escape refugee roundups in Turkey. The double standard in the system frustrates Charles, who cannot secure work visas.

Thanasis and Giannis begin playing basketball in the park to channel their energy and develop skills. Thanasis shows natural athletic ability while Giannis struggles at first but quickly displays potential. They are invited to Filathlitikos to use the gym for free, where coach Takis Zivas spots their talent.

By 2007 Thanasis is a standout player and Giannis has made significant improvements. The brothers gain recognition for their dedication even as immigration issues shadow their progress. Their perseverance keeps them focused on basketball as a path to a safer future.

Thanasis is offered a check by a promising college team, but the offer falls through when concerns about their family history surface. The scrutiny demonstrates how their status can block opportunities that others take for granted. The brothers continue to push forward despite the setback.

Charles buys a car to help the family, but they are nearly kicked out of their apartment despite having money for the next two weeks. The constant financial strain shows how precarious their situation. The family remains determined to pursue basketball and a chance at a better life.

During a match, Giannis and Thanasis are scouted by Haris Eleftheriou, who tries to persuade the scout manager Paco to recruit them. Thanasis injures his leg during the game, leaving Giannis to finish. The scouting moment kicks off a long recruitment process.

Paco is wary of their status and tries to lure them with money, citizenship, and immediate acceptance, but Haris refuses to abandon the brothers. The Antetokounmpos decide to trust Haris and continue pursuing the right path. The tension between agents illustrates the hurdles they face.

Haris reveals that the Spanish team will not sign right away, but will grant Giannis eligibility to try out for the 2013 NBA draft if he succeeds. If he makes it, the whole family will be relocated to America. The stakes are raised as they weigh leaving their homeland for a basketball dream.

Giannis and Thanasis travel to New York City with Haris to meet American agents, including Kevin Stefanides, and to talk with NBA decision makers. They also encounter John Hammond and catch the eye of Nike representatives. The visit marks a turning point in their journey toward being drafted.

At the NBA draft, Giannis is selected 15th overall by the Milwaukee Bucks, securing a future for him and his family in the United States. The selection begins their relocation to America and marks the culmination of years of struggle. The family finally sees a stable pathway to the dream they pursued since 1990.