Channel Seven’s Basil Zempilas butchers pronunciation of NBA star’s name in viral video

You’d think someone called Basil Zempilas would know how pronounce unusual names.

But the Channel Seven newsreader, 49, has gone viral after his garbled attempt at saying the name of NBA star Giannis Antetokounmpo.

He was reporting on Giannis’ dismissal for head-butting rival Moe Wagner on Tuesday, but fumbled when it came to pronouncing the Greek sportsman’s surname.

‘One of the NBA’s biggest stars is in hot water on the eve of the playoffs, Giannis An-te-toka-toma-too…’ he stammered, before adding: ‘…was ejected for head-butting during the Bucks’ penultimate regular season game against the Wizards.’ 

To make matters worse, Basil went on to mispronounce Portland Trail Blazers star Damian Lillard’s last name, mistakenly calling him Damian ‘Lilliard’. 

A video of the reporter’s on-air gaffe has since gone viral, with NBA fans from all over the world taking digs at Basil on social media.

‘Hahahaha probably the most butchered pronunciation of Antetokounmpo followed by Damian LILLIARD. Thanks Basil,’ one unimpressed viewer Tweeted.   

‘Basil somehow made Giannis’ surname even longer,’ another Tweeted.  

Meanwhile, one viewer claimed that Basil, who has Greek heritage, ‘should know how to pronounce the biggest Greek athlete in the world.’  

Basil promptly apologised to his viewers for the embarrassing faux pas, Tweeting: ‘I know, not my best.’ 

It comes weeks after TV and radio personality Basil announced he is running for Lord Mayor of Perth.  

The election is set to take place in October and Basil has told Perth Now that he is ‘up for the fight’.

Speaking of his commitment to the city, Basil told the paper: ‘I live in the city, work in the city and walk through the city every day and I, like all West Aussies, expect our capital to be safer, cleaner, cheaper, more accessible, more vibrant and friendlier.’