Gui Santos, the 23-year-old Brazilian forward, has become one of the most inspiring figures for basketball fans in Brazil. With his on-court versatility and off-court determination, he represents not only national talent but also the relentless drive of someone who dares to dream big. Born in Brasília, Gui forged a path that took him from local courts to stardom in the National Basketball Association (NBA), where he now plays for the Golden State Warriors. His story is one of overcoming obstacles, family, and pure love for the game—and in 2025, he continues to evolve, proving that Brazilian basketball has plenty to offer the world.

This article traces Gui Santos’ steps from childhood to his most recent career highlights. From a kid raised in a family of athletes to a fully established professional in the planet’s most competitive league, his journey motivates young athletes across Brazil.

Childhood and Early Days: Family Roots in Brasília

Guilherme Carvalho dos Santos, known as Gui, was born on June 22, 2002, in Brazil’s federal capital. Growing up in Brasília meant being surrounded by a vibrant sports culture, but it was his family legacy that truly planted the seeds of his passion for basketball. His father, Deivisson Santos, played professionally for five seasons in the Novo Basquete Brasil (NBB) with teams like Brasília and Uberlândia. His mother, Lucineide, was also a basketball player. It’s no surprise that Gui’s younger brother, Eduardo, is following the same path—he started at Minas Tênis Clube, moved to Corinthians, and has already represented Brazil’s youth national teams.

From an early age, Gui absorbed basketball values. “My dad taught me the importance of training hard, even on bad days,” he recalled years later. At age 10, he was already practicing on courts in Gama, a working-class neighborhood in Brasília where equipment was scarce but the hunger to learn was huge. He stood out for his agility and court vision—traits that set him apart from his peers. At 14, he joined the youth academy of Minas Tênis Clube in Belo Horizonte, a move that marked the beginning of his professional development.

Those early years weren’t all glory. Gui dealt with minor injuries and the pressure of adapting to a new city far from family. But it was at Minas that he learned the value of discipline. Daily training sessions, gym work, and school alongside basketball shaped not only his 2.02 m, 100 kg frame but also his mindset. “Basketball taught me resilience,” he reflects. That family foundation and the early challenges at Minas were crucial for what came next.

Rise in Brazilian Basketball: From NBB to the National Team

In 2018, at just 16, Gui made his professional debut with Minas during the 2018-19 NBB season. In his very first year, he became a starter, displaying remarkable maturity. His early numbers—averaging 10 points and 5 rebounds per game—caught the eye of international scouts. Minas, one of Brazil’s most traditional clubs, proved the perfect platform for his growth. In two years, Gui went from prospect to key piece, helping the team reach the playoffs.

A major milestone came in April 2021 when he was selected to the World Team at the Nike Hoop Summit, an event showcasing the best young global talents. Playing alongside future stars, Gui dropped 15 points and dished out precise assists, proving his versatile style—capable of shooting from deep or driving to the rim—could compete anywhere.

At the same time, Gui represented Brazil in youth international competitions. In 2019, at the FIBA South American U17 Championship in Chile, he dominated the final against Argentina with 27 points to secure gold. That title wasn’t just a team achievement; it was the moment Gui realized he could compete at the highest level. His senior national team debut came during qualifiers for the 2022 AmeriCup, where he brought defensive energy and timely shooting.

In the NBB, Gui racked up individual awards and helped Minas reach semifinals. His ability to play multiple positions—small forward or power forward—made him unpredictable. But Brazil was still a springboard. Gui dreamed of the NBA, and in 2022, that dream began to take shape.

The American Dream: NBA Draft and Arrival at the Warriors

2022 was a transformative year. In the NBA Draft held in July, Gui was selected by the Golden State Warriors with the 55th overall pick, becoming the 19th Brazilian ever drafted. It was a moment of national pride: after legends like Oscar Schmidt and Leandro Barbosa, Gui represented a new generation. “Being here is a dream I’ve chased since I was a kid,” he said upon being drafted.

Right after the draft, Gui played in the Las Vegas Summer League with the Warriors, averaging 12 points and 6 rebounds while impressing with his defense and fast-break play. To gain rhythm, he was assigned to the Santa Cruz Warriors in the G League. There, he immediately stood out: in the 2022-23 season, he was selected for the Next Up Game, the G League’s all-star showcase.

His official NBA debut came in November 2023 against the Oklahoma City Thunder. In just 4 minutes, Gui scored 2 points, grabbed 3 rebounds, and recorded 1 assist—a modest but symbolic start. He shuttled between the G League (where he averaged 13.7 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 2.5 assists over 43 career games) and the main roster. On November 6, 2023, he signed a guaranteed three-year contract with the Warriors, securing the 14th roster spot and becoming the only Brazilian in the league that season.

The recent four-time champion Warriors saw Gui as a versatile bench piece. Under Steve Kerr, he learned the nuances of the modern game: spacing, team defense, and three-point shooting. Despite limited minutes in 2023-24 (23 games, 3.6 PPG), he flashed brilliance, including a monster dunk against the Lakers.

2024-25 Season: Growth and Breakout Moments

The 2024-25 season marked Gui’s consolidation in the NBA. With growing confidence, he appeared in 56 regular-season games, averaging 4.1 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 1.4 assists. His first career start came on January 15, 2025, in a tight 116-115 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves. In 21 minutes, he posted 5 points, 7 rebounds, and 3 assists, showing his all-around game.

Days later, on January 22, he set a career-high with 16 points against the Sacramento Kings. In the next game against the Chicago Bulls, he exploded for 19 points and 7 rebounds, including five made threes, in a 131-106 blowout that lit up league highlights. Those performances proved Gui was no longer just a rookie—he was a reliable option.

In the playoffs, he played 10 games, averaging 2.6 points, contributing to a strong Warriors run. Off the court, a February 2024 knee injury sidelined him for weeks, but he returned stronger thanks to a rigorous rehab program. In June 2025, the Warriors exercised their team option, keeping him for the 2025-26 season at a fully guaranteed $2.2 million (roughly R$12 million) starting January 2026.

Gui also shone for Brazil at the 2023 FIBA World Cup after being called up in August, reaffirming his commitment to the national team.

Latest Updates: 2025-26 Season Performance

The 2025-26 season started busy for Gui. In November, he was briefly sent to Santa Cruz for minutes but quickly recalled to the main squad. On November 27, he returned to the Warriors’ rotation, playing 12 minutes against the Philadelphia 76ers and scoring 4 points.

The highlight came on December 6, 2025, in a hard-fought 99-94 win over the Cleveland Cavaliers. With the team short-handed due to injuries, Gui came off the bench and dropped 14 points, including clutch free throws in the final minutes that sealed the victory. It was his best recent performance, standing out for defense and timely shooting. “Gui was huge for us in the fourth quarter,” coach Steve Kerr said post-game. The performance came in a game where all 10 active Warriors contributed in a deep rotation.

Gui has also adapted to a hybrid role: G League minutes to sharpen his game, but consistent NBA presence. On November 20, he returned to the bench after a brief starting stint, yet his impact remains undeniable. Brazilian fans follow eagerly, especially with potential national team call-ups looming for 2026.

Personal Life and Legacy: Beyond the Court

Off the court, Gui is a grounded young man. In June 2025, he proposed to his girlfriend of four years, Júlia Lawrenz. Júlia, a volleyball player at the University of Hawaii and former Brazil junior beach volleyball representative, shares the couple’s nomadic life between San Francisco and travel. “She supports me in everything,” Gui says. He uses social media to motivate kids, posting workouts and messages of perseverance.

His legacy goes beyond stats. As the only Brazilian currently in the NBA, Gui is inspiring a new wave of talent. Basketball academies in Brasília and Belo Horizonte are packed with kids wearing his Warriors No. 15 jersey. He hosts clinics in Brazil during the off-season, teaching fundamentals while stressing the importance of education.

Conclusion: The Bright Future of Gui Santos

Gui Santos is more than a player—he is an ambassador for Brazilian basketball. From Brasília to NBA arenas, his journey—of thousands of practices and dribbles—shows that talent, backed by family and persistence, opens doors. With a secure contract and growing performances like his 14-point night against the Cavaliers in December 2025, Gui is ready for more. Brazil cheers him on, knowing every bucket is a collective victory. Let the next chapters of this inspiring story keep coming.

Jalen Johnson has become one of the most exciting figures in the National Basketball Association in recent years. At just 23 years old, the 6’8″ (2.03 m) forward for the Atlanta Hawks displays a rare combination of athletic power, court vision, and versatility that has put him firmly in the spotlight. Born on December 18, 2001, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Johnson embodies the American basketball dream: from a talented kid on local courts to a rising star on the world’s biggest stage. His journey, marked by challenges and explosive flashes of brilliance, reflects the competitive essence of the NBA, where relentless effort can turn prospects into legends.

In this article, we explore Johnson’s path from humble beginnings to the recent achievements that project him as one of the most promising players of his generation. Updated through December 2025, we dive into the details that define not only his career but also the impact he’s having on the sport.

Origins and Early Steps in Basketball

Jalen Johnson’s story begins on the cold streets of Wisconsin, where basketball is woven into the local identity. Raised by parents who valued discipline and sport, Johnson grew up immersed in a culture that reveres athletes like Giannis Antetokounmpo—the Greek Freak who also shines in Atlanta. From an early age, he showed a natural gift for the game, dribbling in driveways and competing in youth leagues.

In high school, Johnson attended Nicolet High School in Glendale, where he quickly stood out. His imposing size and agility made him a five-star recruit, ranked among the top wings in the class of 2020. To further hone his skills, he transferred to IMG Academy in Florida—one of the elite basketball factories that produced names like Ben Simmons and RJ Hampton. There, Johnson led his team to an outstanding record, averaging 17.3 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game while earning McDonald’s All-American honors.

Those formative years were crucial. Johnson wasn’t just a scorer; he learned to read defenses, distribute the ball, and lead quietly. Coaches described him as a “complete athlete” capable of finishing powerfully at the rim or shooting from deep. That solid foundation prepared him for the leap to college basketball, where the professional world was already watching.

A Quick Stint at Duke and the 2021 NBA Draft

In 2020, Johnson chose Duke University, a college basketball powerhouse under legendary coach Mike Krzyzewski. As a freshman, he joined a loaded roster that included Wendell Moore Jr. and Matthew Hurt. However, his season was short and challenging: in just 13 games, Johnson averaged 11.2 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 2 assists while shooting 45.1% from the field.

Injuries and tactical adjustments limited his minutes, but flashes of brilliance—like a 22-point outburst against Boston College—showed his potential. In February 2021, he made the bold decision to leave Duke early for the NBA Draft, a move that paid off. His choice reflected the modern era of college basketball, where top talents trust their instincts and the eyes of scouts.

In the 2021 NBA Draft, Johnson was selected 20th overall by the Atlanta Hawks, a franchise in rebuild mode after moving on from veterans like Danilo Gallinari. The Hawks saw him as the perfect complement to star point guard Trae Young—someone who could space the floor and finish plays. He signed a four-year rookie contract worth approximately $17 million and arrived in the league with moderate expectations but a fierce determination to prove himself.

Adaptation and Growth with the Atlanta Hawks

Johnson’s 2021-22 rookie season was one of intense learning. Playing in just 22 games and averaging 5.5 minutes, he posted 2.4 points and 1.2 rebounds. The NBA’s frenetic pace tested him, but he used G-League time with the College Park Skyhawks to sharpen his three-point shot and defense. In 2022-23, opportunities grew: 39 games, 14.4 minutes, 6.4 points, and 3.8 rebounds, including standout playoff moments that helped Atlanta upset the Boston Celtics in the first round.

The real breakout came in 2023-24. With injuries to teammates like John Collins, Johnson became a full-time starter, playing 33.7 minutes per game and averaging 16.0 points, 8.7 rebounds, 3.6 assists, 1.2 steals, and 0.9 blocks. Shooting 51.1% from the field and 35.5% from three, he became one of the league’s most efficient players. Despite missing time with wrist and ankle issues, he finished the season as one of Atlanta’s brightest spots as the Hawks returned to the playoffs.

In 2024-25, Johnson solidified his status, averaging 18.9 points, 10.0 rebounds, and 5.0 assists in 36 starts. His pick-and-roll chemistry with Trae Young became lethal, and he led the team in rebounding. Persistent injuries—including left-shoulder surgery in January—tested him, but his resilience impressed everyone. In the offseason, Atlanta added Kristaps Porziņģis and Dyson Daniels, creating an ideal supporting cast so Johnson wouldn’t have to carry the entire load.

The Explosion in the 2025-26 Season: Unforgettable Numbers and Moments

The 2025-26 season has been Jalen Johnson’s coming-out party. Through 20 games as of December 2025, he’s averaging a jaw-dropping 23.2 points, 10.0 rebounds, 7.3 assists, 1.6 steals, and 0.4 blocks in 34.9 minutes. His shooting splits? 53.9% from the field, 41.2% from three, and 78.9% from the free-throw line. Those numbers place him in the top-20 in scoring and rebounding, and top-10 in assists among forwards.

November was electric. On November 30 against the Philadelphia 76ers, Johnson set a new career high with 41 points, 14 rebounds, 7 assists, 1 steal, and 1 block in a wild 142-134 double-overtime victory—one of the most complete performances of his career. Days later, on December 1 against the Detroit Pistons, he posted 29 points, 13 rebounds, and 7 assists despite a 99-98 loss.

The pinnacle came on December 5 at home against the Denver Nuggets. Listed as questionable with a right calf strain that had kept him out of the previous game against the Clippers, Johnson came out possessed. In the first half alone, he recorded a historic triple-double: 11 points, 10 rebounds, and 12 assists in just 16 minutes. That made him only the fifth player since 1997-98 to notch a triple-double in a half and the second-fastest in NBA history (behind a 15-minute mark). Fans and analysts lost their minds; social media exploded with comparisons to prime Russell Westbrook.

These games aren’t flukes. Over his last 11 contests, Johnson has averaged 25.7 points, 11.2 rebounds, 8.9 assists, and 1.7 steals in 37 minutes. His versatility—guarding guards to centers, elite shooting, and elite playmaking—has thrust him into the MVP conversation, or at the very least, the Most Improved Player race. With the Hawks surging in the East thanks to Porziņģis and company, Johnson is the offensive engine alongside Trae Young.

Playing Style: Versatility and Basketball IQ

What makes Johnson special is his adaptability. As a modern power forward, he seamlessly slides between the 3 and 4 positions, exploiting mismatches. His athletic explosion produces highlight-reel dunks and voracious offensive rebounds—he leads the league in rebounds per game among players under 25. His passing vision, reminiscent of facilitators like LeBron James, creates easy looks for teammates at a 7.3-assist clip.

Defensively, he’s a hound: 1.6 steals per game reflect elite reading of passing lanes. His now-elite 41.2% three-point shooting stretches defenses and opens driving lanes. Critics point to occasional foul trouble (3.3 per game) and inconsistency in low-usage nights, but his work ethic—extra shooting sessions and film study—continues to smooth those edges. In a league of specialists, Johnson is a throwback generalist, valuable in any system.

A Bright Future and a Legacy in the Making

With his rookie contract running through 2025 and extension talks looming, Johnson is on the superstar track. Rumors of a massive new deal have intensified after his Nuggets masterpiece made global headlines. Off the court, he’s active in Atlanta community programs—running basketball camps for underprivileged youth—and has endorsement deals with Nike and Gatorade.

Looking ahead, the goal is deep playoff runs with the Hawks. With young talents like Zaccharie Risacher and Onyeka Okongwu maturing, Johnson could anchor a new era in the Southeast. His calf injury, while manageable, serves as a reminder that health remains the only real obstacle. If he stays on this trajectory, 2026 could be the year he makes his first All-Star team.

Conclusion: A Name to Etch in History

Jalen Johnson is no longer just a prospect—he is a thrilling reality in the NBA. From the courts of Wisconsin to the bright lights of State Farm Arena, his journey inspires millions. As of December 2025, with that lightning-fast triple-double still fresh in everyone’s mind, Johnson represents everything basketball has to offer: overcoming odds, spectacle, and unity. The Hawks and their fans are lucky—and the basketball world has a talent to celebrate for many years to come.

Antoine Griezmann is one of those players who seem made for football. With a sharp game vision, precise dribbles, and a goal-scoring instinct that defies the years, the 34-year-old Frenchman continues to shine on the pitches. Born in Mâcon, in the heart of France, Griezmann is not just a scorer, but a true maestro on the field, capable of creating plays out of nothing and deciding matches with a touch of class. His trajectory, full of ups and downs, reflects the passion he carries for the sport. In a world where European football renews itself every season, Griezmann remains a reference for dedication and pure talent. Let’s dive into the story of this star who, even at 34, dreams of new horizons.

The First Steps: From Mâcon to the Youth Academies

It all began in a small French town called Mâcon, on March 21, 1991. The son of Alain, a former amateur player with Germanic roots, and Isabelle, of Portuguese descent—with a grandfather who played for Paços de Ferreira—Griezmann grew up in an environment where football was more than a game: it was family. Vacations in Portugal at his grandparents’ house planted the seeds of love for the sport. But the initial path wasn’t easy. At the local club UF Mâcon, the skinny and light boy faced rejections. Clubs like Metz and Lyon turned him away because of his stature. “I was too small,” he recalls in old interviews, with a smile that hides his determination.

The turning point came at age 14. In a friendly against the Paris Saint-Germain juniors, Griezmann caught the eye of Real Sociedad scouts. The family took a risk: they moved to San Sebastián, Spain, where he joined the Basque academy. There, far from home, the boy transformed. He learned Spanish, absorbed the local culture, and above all, refined his game. “Real Sociedad gave me wings,” he once said. From the youth team to the senior squad, it was a quick leap. In 2009, at 18, he debuted in Spain’s Segunda División. His speed, peripheral vision, and placed finishes began to emerge. In the 2009-10 season, he helped the team win the division title, scoring six goals in 37 games. It was the harbinger of a talent that would soon explode in the elite.

Rise at Real Sociedad: The Birth of a Star

Real Sociedad, with its passionate fans and the boiling Anoeta stadium, was the perfect crucible for Griezmann to forge his style. In La Liga, starting in 2010, he evolved from prospect to key piece. He played as a left winger, but his versatility allowed him to float across the attack, confusing defenses. Over five years (2010-2014), he accumulated 201 matches and 52 goals—impressive numbers for a 23-year-old.

Iconic moments defined this phase. In 2013, a hat-trick against Celta de Vigo put him on the map. But it was the volley goal against Athletic Bilbao in the 2014 Basque derby that sealed his farewell to the club. The txuri-urdin fans, as the Sociedad supporters are called, still mourn his departure. Offers poured in: Lyon, Saint-Étienne, Manchester United, Arsenal. In the end, Atlético de Madrid, coached by Diego Simeone, won the race for 30 million euros. Griezmann left with a heavy heart, but ready for the big stage. “San Sebastián taught me to be a man,” he confided years later. This stage shaped not only his football but his character: humble, resilient, and always grateful.

The Colchonero Heart: Glories and Challenges at Atlético de Madrid

Arriving at Atlético in 2014 was like entering a demanding family. Simeone, the Cholo, saw in Griezmann the ideal partner for Álvaro Morata and company. In his debut, against Barcelona in the Spanish Supercopa, he scored and lifted the trophy—the first of many. In the 2014-15 season, 22 goals in 54 games. But the peak came in 2018: the UEFA Europa League, with a brace in the final against Olympique de Marseille (3-0). The UEFA and Spanish Supercopas completed the cycle. Griezmann became an idol, with his rochiblanca grit—the warrior soul of the club.

In 2019, however, came the controversy. After a months-long saga, he signed with Barcelona for 120 million euros, the fifth-largest transfer in history at the time. The farewell to Atlético was bitter; fans felt betrayed. At Barça, alongside Messi and Suárez, the world was expected. But things didn’t flow. 35 goals in 103 games, a Copa del Rey title in 2021, but criticism for not fitting into Koeman and Xavi’s schemes. Griezmann, always elegant, admitted: “It wasn’t the right place for me.” In 2021, his return to Atlético on loan—and subsequent purchase for 20 million—was like a reunion of soulmates. Today, with a contract until 2027, he is the club’s all-time leading scorer: 197 goals, surpassing Luis Aragonés in 2024. His partnership with Simeone yielded magical moments, like the goal against Real Madrid in the 2024 Supercopa, which crowned him as the record holder.

The French National Team: From Runner-Up to World Champion

For France, Griezmann is synonymous with consistency. He debuted in 2014 against the Netherlands, in a friendly mixing talent and pressure. At the 2014 World Cup, he was a substitute, but at Euro 2016, he exploded: six goals, Golden Boot, and runner-up after a final loss to Portugal. “It was painful, but it strengthened me,” he said. The peak? The 2018 World Cup. In Deschamps’ France, he scored four goals, including in the final against Croatia (4-2), and took home the Bronze Ball. World champion at 27—the dream of any boy from Mâcon.

The 2021 Nations League and the 2022 World Cup runner-up, with a missed penalty in the shootout against Argentina, completed a cycle of glories and lessons. In September 2024, after 137 games and 44 goals, Griezmann retired from the national team. “I left everything on the field,” he declared in an emotional press conference. His absence leaves a void, but his legacy—Olympic gold in the youth ranks in 2010 and leadership in majors—is eternal.

Life Off the Field: Family, Controversies, and Passions

Griezmann is more than football. Married since 2017 to Erika Choperena, a child psychologist, the couple has three children: Mia (2016), Amaro (2019), and Alba (2021). Family is his safe harbor; Erika, Colombian, brings balance to the star’s hectic life. Off the four lines, he is a fan of video games—FIFA is his vice—mangas like One Piece, and basketball, influenced by his friendship with Tony Parker.

Not everything was perfect. In 2017, a blackface photo as a tribute to the Harlem Globetrotters sparked controversy. Griezmann issued a public apology: “I didn’t mean to offend anyone; I learned from the mistake.” His sister Maude survived the 2015 Bataclan attacks, which marked him deeply. Today, he uses his voice for social causes, like inclusion in sports. Nicknames like “Little Prince” or “Grizi” capture his essence: charming, but grounded.

The Current Moment: Renewal, Goals, and American Dreams

In December 2025, Griezmann is living a transition phase at Atlético. At 34, he renewed until 2027 in June, but with a reduced salary to help the club’s finances under La Liga rules. The 2024-25 season ended with an 18-game goal drought, overshadowed by Julian Álvarez (17 goals) and Alexander Sørloth (20). But the Frenchman responded: in September 2025, he scored the first goal of the 2025-26 season in stoppage time against Real Madrid (5-2), ending a 22-match dry spell and handing the rivals their worst derby loss since 1950. Three days later, his 200th goal for Atlético came against Eintracht Frankfurt in the Champions League (5-1).

In March, he surpassed Messi as the foreigner with the most La Liga games (521). Recently, he came off the bench against Levante, scoring two goals in a 3-1 comeback. Against Inter Milan in the Champions League, he was on the bench, but his mentality impresses: “I have to be professional and an example for my teammates,” he said in November.

Rumors of departure swirl. Griezmann dreams of the MLS: “It’s my goal, but I’m under contract and want more trophies here.” Speculation links him to an “unexpected club” to reunite with former teammates, but he focuses on the present. With 53 games in the last season (16 goals, 9 assists), Griezmann proves that age is just a number. Atlético prepares for the Club World Cup in the US, and he, always smiling, assures: “I’ll give everything on the field.”

Eternal Legacy: Why Griezmann Still Captivates

Antoine Griezmann transcends statistics. His 262 goals in 672 club games, the World Cups, the versatility from winger to false 9—all this places him among the greats. But it’s the heart that wins over: loyalty to Atlético, humility after mistakes, family as an anchor. In a football world of inflated egos, he is the perfect anti-hero—the guy who runs, smiles, and delivers. At 34, with MLS on the horizon, Griezmann reminds us: football is about moments, not endings. And his, still under construction, promise more glorious pages.