“Greek Freak 2.0”: Trish Christakis gets new nickname as internet sensationalism takes her fame to new heights
Trish Christakis turned heads during the NBA playoffs for her sideline reporting for the Miami Heat. The CBS reporter became popular during the first round for catching the attention of Barstool Sports' Dave Portnoy, who inadvertently made her a star on social media. Now, television stations in Greece are calling her "Greek Freak 2.0".
The Greek-American reporter now shares the moniker with NBA superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo, who earned it thanks to his extraordinary length and talent on the court. Trish Christakis has taken her newfound internet celebrity in stride, enjoying the ride and remarking at her new nickname.
Trish Christakis has been a journalist for more than a decade, spending the last three years in Miami as a reporter and anchor for CBS News. She received a boost to her popularity while covering the Heat's first round series against the Cleveland Cavaliers, growing from a recognizable reporter to an internet sensation almost overnight.
However, she may never be the most popular "Greek Freak". Antetokounmpo is one of the NBA's best players and a dominant force in the league. His playoff run was far shorter than he had hoped, but he continued to prove that he is a top talent in the game, regardless of the situation.
Trish Christakis and Giannis Antetokounmpo could form a "Greek Freak" duo in Miami
Now that his playoff run is over, rumors are swirling about what Antetokounmpo will decide to do this offseason. Damian Lillard's torn ACL will keep him out for the majority of next season and the Bucks' roster is flawed. Many experts expect Antetokounmpo to request a trade. Former NFL receiver and sports media personality Chad "Ochocinco" Johnson believes that he will end up in Miami.
While the newfound popularity of Trish Christakis provides the possibility of a funny moment for Antetokounmpo, a move from Milwaukee to Miami would be more about what the team offers on the court. The Heat have a history of pursuing big stars in the offseason, either via trade or free agency.
They have the assets available to offer Milwaukee a package for Antetokounmpo, but will have to compete with other suitors from around the league. While Johnson believes that the original "Greek Freak" will give Miami the star they've been waiting for since losing Jimmy Butler, Antetokounmpo's decision looms as the biggest domino in the NBA offseason.
