Giannis Antetokounmpo remains focused on his game while the rest of the NBA closely watches his uncertain future with the Milwaukee Bucks.
After the Bucks’ 112-110 victory over the Atlanta Hawks, Giannis Antetokounmpo addressed the swirling rumors that multiple teams are holding onto assets in anticipation of his possible availability.
“Can’t control that. I can’t control what other teams do. I just try to focus on my job, which is go out there, compete and try to win games,” remarked the Bucks superstar.
NBA insider Zach Lowe recently noted that teams including the Los Angeles Lakers, Golden State Warriors, New York Knicks, Miami Heat, and Atlanta Hawks are holding onto key assets as they brace for a possible run at acquiring Giannis Antetokounmpo in the near future.
“The Hawks, Warriors, Lakers, Heat and Knicks are all considering holding onto their assets for a potential pursuit of Giannis Antetokounmpo now or in the Summer,” Lowe reported.
Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Bucks’ rocky season
Jan 13, 2026; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) reacts in the second quarter against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-Imagn Images
There are no official reports that Giannis Antetokounmpo will leave the Bucks despite their dismal 18-24 record and 11th-place position in the Eastern Conference. That could change if the superstar decides to seek a fresh start with a team that offers a better shot at contention. For now, Antetokounmpo remains committed to the Bucks, even after facing boos and hostile reactions from the home crowd.
The Giannis trade speculation heated up further after the Greek Freak showed frustration with Milwaukee fans following their lopsided 139-106 home loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves last week.
Jan 13, 2026; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) is helped up by guard Kevin Porter (7) after a foul in the third quarter against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-Imagn Images
“Felt great,” Giannis remarked when talking about the boos at home.
“For some reason, I enjoy being the villain this year, even with your own fans. It doesn’t really matter with anybody. It just makes my motor go more. It makes me hungry when I play. It makes me compete more. It doesn’t matter. I just love playing basketball, and anything that can spark that fire in me, I love it.”