HCriticism and doubt surrounded the Milwaukee Bucks throughout the offseason. However, the message from inside the locker room became loud and unmistakable. External theories suggest the team depends heavily on Giannis Antetokounmpo, but is that really the case?
Recently, the players made their stance clear. From the locker room, they sent a powerful message to Antetokounmpo, revealing what is truly happening on the court. They also emphasized that they are ready to compete with any team in the league.
Unity, competitive hunger, and a new identity
According to Essentiallysports, Bucks big man Bobby Portis revealed the true atmosphere in Milwaukee. In a recent interview, he said the team is built with “dogs” who carry a ferocious mentality. To him, these are players who have been overlooked, ignored, or discarded at different points in their careers. However, they now see this season as a rare opportunity. The internal message is crystal clear: they are not playing to keep Giannis — they are playing to win.
“Is there any animosity in that locker room signing two of Giannis’ brothers?” 🤔
Chandler Parsons asks Bobby Portis about the dynamics among players on the Bucks.@BPortistime | @MichelleDBeadle | @boogiecousins | @TeamLou23 | @ChandlerParsons pic.twitter.com/0B1s7r7mtE— Run It Back (@RunItBackFDTV) October 20, 2025
Controversy erupted after the franchise made several questioned decisions, including signing Thanasis and Alex Antetokounmpo. Many fans labeled it a political move to secure the future of the two-time MVP. Yet inside the team, they insist the reality is different. The arrival of Myles Turner, a recent NBA finalist, combined with a rotation full of shooters, has shaped a more dynamic and dangerous offensive identity.
During preseason, Milwaukee showed clear signs of its new project. Even without Giannis on the floor, the team executed a solid offensive plan and shot 40.6% from three, one of the best marks in the league over that span. With Turner, the Bucks aim to maximize Giannis’ growth as a playmaker and turn him into a constant dual threat.
Antetokounmpo also delivered a message of his own: “We’re not the favorites. But we’re going to be a problem. We’re going to be dangerous… We have many playmakers and ball handlers. And many defenders. We can switch. We have an incredible big who can space the floor and be a defensive problem. We’re built exactly the way a statement team should be.”
The Bucks enter the season facing external criticism but internal conviction. If they stay healthy and solidify their new identity, this could be their most compelling chapter since their last championship.
