Giannis Reaffirms His Commitment To Milwaukee Amid Rumors Spurs, Rockets & Other Teams Were Closely Monitoring Trade
Giannis Antetokounmpo says he’s “locked in” with the Milwaukee Bucks this season, reaffirming his commitment to the franchise amid fresh trade speculation.
“I believe in this team,” the two-time MVP told reporters after practice Wednesday. “I’m here to lead this team to whatever we can go. All the added extra stuff, that doesn’t matter… The moment I step on this court, I wear this jersey. The rest does not matter.”
Still, Antetokounmpo left the door open for change. “If in six, seven months I change my mind, that’s human, too,” he added.
His comments followed an ESPN report claiming the Bucks and New York Knicks discussed a possible trade in August that never gained traction. The network reported New York was the only team outside Milwaukee Antetokounmpo would consider.
The Bucks’ New Look: Myles Turner Joins the Fold
After early playoff exits the past three years, the Bucks are hoping their biggest offseason addition, center Myles Turner, can shift the team’s fortunes. Turner, signed away from Indiana, brings shot-blocking and floor spacing to a frontcourt that has struggled against the Pacers, who eliminated Milwaukee in back-to-back postseasons.
Antetokounmpo, who led Milwaukee to its first championship in 50 years in 2021, said the team still has the tools to contend. “I’ve always wanted to be in Milwaukee, always wanted to represent the city, as long as we have the opportunity to win,” he said. “And I feel like we have an opportunity to win.”
Will Giannis Stay Put? The League Is Watching
Around the league, eyes remain fixed on Milwaukee. Sports Illustrated’s Chris Mannix reports several teams—including Houston, San Antonio, Orlando, and New York—are closely monitoring Antetokounmpo’s situation should the Bucks falter.
While the Knicks lack the draft capital for a serious push, teams with flexibility could move fast if Milwaukee shows signs of regression. With one year left on his deal after this season, Antetokounmpo would control any trade that sends him elsewhere.
For now, though, he insists he’s focused on the present. “I’m locked into this team,” he said. “I’m locked into these guys, this group, and to my coaching staff and to myself.”
