Giannis Antetokounmpo locks down the rumors and sets his terms

Giannis Antetokounmpo isn’t leaving. At least, not yet. After a summer filled with speculation, strategic silences, and sidelong glances between franchises, the two-time MVP has decided to start the season with the Milwaukee Bucks. In doing so, he puts the trade rumors on hold—though not entirely to rest.

According to FirstSportz, the Bucks’ latest roster move played a key role in calming the waters. While no formal extension has been signed, the decision reassured Giannis Antetokounmpo that the front office is serious about keeping the team competitive. The Greek star wants to win, and Milwaukee seems to have realized that having him on the roster isn’t enough—they need to build around him.

He wants to compete

During the offseason, Giannis Antetokounmpo made it clear he wasn’t entirely comfortable. His desire to keep competing at the highest level clashed with the uncertainty left by Damian Lillard’s departure and a third straight first-round playoff exit. The signing of Myles Turner to a four-year, $100 million deal was the first step in reshaping the project. Turner arrives as a new interior partner, bringing defensive strength and offensive presence that could free up Antetokounmpo in key moments.

 

Ver esta publicación en Instagram

 

Una publicación compartida de Milwaukee Bucks (@bucks)

The Knicks were part of the conversation. According to reports from Sportskeeda, New York missed its chance to pursue Giannis Antetokounmpo after committing to Mikal Bridges. That window closed, and Milwaukee seized the moment to reinforce its bond with its franchise player.

Pressure on and off the court

Giannis Antetokounmpo has also faced pressure beyond basketball. In recent days, he publicly called out media practices that, in his view, jeopardize his family’s safety. His message was clear: he wants to compete, but he also wants to protect his personal space. That duality—the athlete and the father—is shaping his maturity both on and off the court.

For now, Giannis Antetokounmpo remains the face of the Bucks. His presence isn’t a lifelong promise, but it is a statement of intent. Milwaukee has a fresh chance to prove it can offer more than loyalty. It needs to show it can build wins. And that, for Giannis, is still what matters most.

The Milwaukee Bucks are signing Alex Antetokounmpo to a two-way NBA deal, joining older brothers Giannis and Thanasis, Octagon’s Alex Saratsis tells ESPN. This marks the first time in NBA history that three brothers are on active roster contracts with the same team. pic.twitter.com/X7JdTURinQ

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) October 13, 2025