Matt Velazquez

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

MINNEAPOLIS - Former President Barack Obama was at Milwaukee's North Division High School on Friday to campaign for local Democrats in the upcoming election. He didn't only discuss politics, though, taking some time to mention Milwaukee's sports teams.

Obama made particular mention of the Milwaukee Bucks and specifically their star, Giannis Antetokounmpo.

"There are a lot of good reasons to come to Milwaukee," Obama said. "You've got the Brewers, great season. Did much better than my (Chicago White) Sox. You've got the Bucks, 4-0. Giannis is ballin'. Got the Badgers. You've got brats. You've got beer. So there are a lot of good reasons why I would want to come to Milwaukee."

Antetokounmpo is indeed off to a strong start to the season. Antetokounmpo is averaging 28.5 points, 16.5 rebounds, 6.8 assists and 1.8 blocks through four games this season, helping the Bucks to their unbeaten start.

Prior to Friday's game in Minneapolis against the Minnesota Timberwolves, Bucks coach Mike Budenholzer was made aware of Obama's statement regarding the team's star. Of course, Budenholzer agreed with the assessment.

“I always agree with Barack Obama," Budenholzer said. "He’s amazing. You talk about leadership and a great role model. I love that he loves basketball. If he said it, I’m with him.”

Following Friday's game, a 125-95 Bucks win, Antetokounmpo discussed what it meant to hear about Obama name-dropping him during his stop in Milwaukee.

“They told me before the game, but I didn’t want to put a lot of thought into it," he said. "But it’s amazing. A guy like Barack Obama mentioning my name and knowing what I’m doing, it’s a great feeling.”