Zi Wei hopes to emulate idol Giannis and give his all for Penang

Lim Zi Wei (right) attempts a rebound against Sarawak. - Photo by MABA

KUALA LUMPUR: Penang’s Lim Zi Wei is a big fan of Greek basketball superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo.

And the 20-year-old has been trying to mirror the Milwaukee Bucks player, who stands tall at 2.21m, in the ongoing Agong’s Cup at the Maba Stadium in Kuala Lumpur.

So far, Zi Wei has been going great for Penang in the national meet.

“Giannis is aggressive in every game. He just never gives up. The way he rebounds the ball and the dunks, it’s amazing the stuff he does on the court,” said Zi Wei.

“Not to forget, his work ethic. I’ve seen his videos, he never stops training to be even better. He is gifted physically but he just wants to be better.

“You can see what he has done to Milwaukee Bucks since he joined them in 2013. He led them to the NBA title in 2021 and Bucks are known worldwide thanks to him.

“I have always tried to mirror his game especially when it comes to rebounds. I do my best in scoring as well for Penang.”

He also fancies local start and national player Wong Yi Hao of Negri Sembilan.

“I learn from Giannis and Yi Hao a lot in terms of improving my gameplay.”

Yesterday, he led his team to a sensational 82-56 win against Sarawak B in Group A. He scored 22 points and had 13 rebounds.

It was their second win, having beaten Kelantan 73-48 earlier.

Despite leading the scoring charts for his team, Zi Wei is not pleased yet.

“I do not think I am at my best yet because I have made some mistakes during games despite scoring points and getting rebounds,” said Zi Wei.

“I would rate my performance as seven out of 10 at the moment. We have won the first two games, which is good, but the next two against Johor (tomorrow) and Negri (Nov 2) will be tougher.

“I just hope to do my best and lead the team to the semi-final. It’s my dream to be the top rebounder in the tournament too.”