After the Milwaukee Bucks tumbled into mediocrity, missing the Play-In seeds so far this season and denying Giannis Antetokounmpo the chance to leave on his own terms, a number of former players have spoken out, openly condemning the organization.
Still, Charles Barkley isn’t among those ready to criticize the franchise harshly. In fact, the legendary big man praised the Bucks for their consistent efforts to keep the two-time MVP engaged and motivated year after year.
“You have to give [the Bucks front office] credit, they have tried everything”
Barkley on the latest Giannis reports.
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“He’s not having the greatest time with booing and doing other stuff, but they’ve got to break this up and it was best for everybody. He’s a great player, great kid and he don’t want to alienate Milwaukee, I admire and respect that. But they got to find a way to make the best deal possible,” remarked “The Round Mound of Rebound.
Since capturing the NBA championship in 2021, Milwaukee’s performance has steadily declined each year. From an outside perspective, it may seem simple to fault the front office for failing to provide The Greek Freak with a strong supporting cast during his peak MVP-level years.
Charles Barkley praises the Bucks for their efforts on Giannis Antetokounmpo
Dec 29, 2025; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) in a time out during the second half against the Charlotte Hornets at the Spectrum Center. Mandatory Credit: Sam Sharpe-Imagn Images
“You gotta give them the credit, they have tried everything. They went out and brought Damian Lillard, that didn’t work. They went out and got Myles Turner, that didn’t work. They gave both his brothers jobs, that definitely didn’t work,” Barkley continued.
That said, the Giannis-Bucks era looks set to end, possibly even before this season’s trade deadline. While closing the chapter on such a successful run is tough, Milwaukee now faces the task of securing the best possible return if it parts ways with the two-time Finals MVP.
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
It’s crucial for the Bucks to land a trade package that combines draft picks and young talent, giving the team a chance to chart a new course and establish a fresh identity after more than a decade with Giannis.
So, while many may overlook just how relentlessly the Bucks have worked to keep Giannis engaged year after year, even at the cost of creating internal friction, the Inside the NBA host fully acknowledges them trying.