Over the past week, whispers have linked Giannis Antetokounmpo to virtually every marquee franchise, ranging from the Los Angeles Lakers and Golden State Warriors to the New York Knicks and Miami Heat, as fans dissect every social‐media post and vacation photo for hidden signals.
Yet, despite the endless chatter, ESPN’s Brian Windhorst reported back in June that “There is currently no trade market for Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo, because he has not asked for [a trade] and the Bucks are not looking to trade him.”
Against that backdrop of rampant speculation, a recent joint livestream in Greece with internet personality IShowSpeed offered the most direct insight yet into Anteokounmpo’s mindset.
Midway through their conversation about the stark contrast between income taxes in Los Angeles and New York, Antetokounmpo quipped, “A lot of people try to convince me to go and play there and stuff.”
When pressed on whether he intended to remain in Milwaukee, he sent a six‐word reply.
“Probably. We’ll see. I love Milwaukee.”
Giannis Antetokounmpo
Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo.
© Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images
That measured response, part reassurance, part ambiguity, will slightly intrigue the fans of other franchises who are closely watching the developments.
Previously, during a visit to Brazil, Antetokounmpo strongly put forward his desire to continue playing for Milwaukee. And even now, through the free agency, the narrative remains the same. The Greek Freak will continue wearing the Bucks' colors. At least for this season.
He has a strong desire to win another NBA Championship, and the management made significant changes to their roster to support him in that endeavor, including acquiring Myles Turner from Indiana and waiving Damian Lillard.
With a player option in 2027 and no no‐trade clause, Antetokounmpo retains ultimate control. For now, his public declaration, “I love Milwaukee”, may be the clearest signal fans and rivals will get until the next chapter of this saga unfolds.