ESPN reports that Giannis Antetokounmpo is considering a change in scenery.
Yet, in his own words, Antetokounmpo insists he doesn’t want to leave.
“Deep down, what I want is to spend the rest of my career as a running back in Milwaukee and win here,” he said during an interview with the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel on Tuesday.
As the trade deadline approaches, speculation is mounting, with teams like the Knicks eyeing the Greek star.
Since clinching the NBA Championship in 2021, the Bucks have struggled, getting ousted in the second round in 2022 and then facing first-round exits over the last three seasons.
Milwaukee found itself in the final play-in tournament spot on Wednesday, holding a record of 19-29 and leading the Bulls by 3.5 games.
Few outside of the city would fault the 31-year-old for seeking another title. However, based on his statements about the ongoing trade discussions, he appears committed to staying put.
“I came here when I was 18 years old. When you think about your earliest memories—like 4 or 5 years old—that spans my life from 5 to 18. So, 13 years of memories. Then from 18 to 31, that’s also 13 years. I’ve spent more time in Milwaukee than in my homeland,” he reflected.
“I’ve created countless memories here. The only memories I have of my home country involve struggling to sell goods on the streets or living in fear while looking out for my brothers and trying to be a good kid.”
“What I’ve gained during my time here is invaluable. I know what it takes to be an NBA player, an All-Star, a champion, and an MVP. I became a father and got married right here in Milwaukee. Now, when I look at my kids’ passports, it says I was born here.”
“So when people say I don’t love Milwaukee, that couldn’t be further from the truth. The people who know me understand my feelings for this city. It’s given me the freedom to be myself and a loving father.”
“When I’m out walking, most people don’t react to me. But that’s okay; everyone has their own opinions about things. Opinions can be cheap, you know?”
“This city deserves joy and success. We’ve been at the top before, but it’s a cycle—there will be ups and downs. We need to maintain a strong mindset regardless.”
“I’ve witnessed how much the fans care about me and their expectations. If there are differing agendas within the team regarding our direction, something needs to change.”
That said, if it becomes clear that the Bucks won’t contend for a championship, he is not opposed to exploring other avenues.
“If you really want to know my desire? I want to finish my career in Milwaukee, winning a championship here. That’s my goal,” he declared.
“But if that’s not in the cards, and if the organization is shifting its focus elsewhere, then naturally, I’d have to consider my options. That’s just how it works.”
Currently, the two-time MVP is sidelined with a calf injury, having missed the last four games. This season, he’s played 30 games, averaging 28 points, 10 rebounds, and 5.6 assists.
