Once Jason Kidd became head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks, he raised some eyebrows by calling the 6'11" Giannis Antetokounmpo a point guard.
The big man from Greece certainly seems to have a decent level of playmaking ability, but having someone with his size and athleticism initiating the offense consistently seems like a bit of a misuse of his talents, at least on the surface.
Kidd appears to be 100 percent committed to the idea, however, as evidenced by the latest report of a future, perhaps unofficial addition to his staff.
From Kostas Koukousis of Sport24.gr, as translated by SB Nation’s Brew Hoop:Jason Kidd had a vision going to Milwaukee: to see Giannis Antetokounmpo running the point for the Bucks from the “1" position. The new coach of the “Bucks” is not only determined to implement this idea, but will have the help of one of the top point guards of the 90s in this effort: Gary Payton.
Gary Payton is in Athens today and at an event held during the afternoon in the northern suburbs, he revealed that he has agreed with the Bucks to assume the role of ‘Special Advisor’ for Giannis Antetokounmpo during next season. The “Glove” will start work during pre-season, which will begin at the end of the month, and said that he has met with the 19 year old forward in Las Vegas, as well as with Jason Kidd, with whom he has a long friendship from the years they have both played in the NBA.As always, we’ll remind you to tread lightly anytime we’re presenting information that’s translated from another language. But if it does turn out as it’s being reported, Antetokounmpo will have two Hall of Fame caliber point guards on his coaching staff to help him transition into playing the position more regularly, which appears to be in line with Kidd’s vision.