Many in the basketball world were surprised that Giannis Antetokounmpo stayed with the Milwaukee Bucks through the Feb. 5 NBA trade deadline.
In a conversation with ESPN’s Malika Andrews shared on Sunday, Antetokounmpo discussed his uncertain future after this season.
Antetokounmpo’s Commitment “as of today”
“As of today, I’m committed to the Milwaukee Bucks,” he said. “I’m committed to my teammates, the coaching staff, Coach Doc [Rivers], and [GM] Jon [Horst] in the front office. From the start of this year, I want you to know that I will never say I don’t want to be a Milwaukee Buck.”
In several interviews leading up to the trade deadline, Antetokounmpo expressed his desire “to be a Milwaukee Buck for the rest of [his] career.” However, the 23-30 Bucks were in 12th place in the Eastern Conference standings at the NBA All-Star break. There are concerns that Milwaukee may not be just one good offseason away from being a championship contender.
Antetokounmpo has not played since Jan. 23 due to a calf injury. Recent rumors have linked him with teams such as the Minnesota Timberwolves, New York Knicks, Golden State Warriors, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Miami Heat. He could become an unrestricted free agent in the summer of 2027 if he decides to decline the player option in his contract, and many speculate he may be traded when more teams can pursue him this summer.
Antetokounmpo’s Loyalty to the Bucks
“I am a winner and I’m very loyal,” Antetokounmpo added, according to SNY’s Garrett Stepien. “But sometimes you dream about playing for other teams. It doesn’t change as an adult. You watch games and think about how things could be different. If there ever comes a time when I’m no longer a Milwaukee Buck, I want everyone to know that I didn’t quit on my team—I love them.”
While Antetokounmpo may not be giving up on the Bucks this season, it seems a separation is likely in the future.