MILWAUKEE, WI — The Milwaukee Bucks opted not to trade Giannis Antetokounmpo before Thursday’s NBA trade deadline, telling interested teams hours before the cutoff that they would keep the two-time MVP at least through the remainder of the season.
The decision followed several days of serious trade discussions. The Bucks reportedly fielded and countered offers from multiple teams, including the Golden State Warriors, Miami Heat and Minnesota Timberwolves.
Sources told ESPN that while Antetokounmpo has been open to a move for months, the Bucks did not feel urgency to complete a deal. Both sides are expected to revisit the situation during the offseason.
Shortly after the deadline passed, Antetokounmpo posted on Instagram, writing, “Legends don’t chase. They attract,” alongside a clip from The Wolf of Wall Street in which Leonardo DiCaprio’s character declares he is not leaving his job.
Antetokounmpo remains under contract through the 2026–27 season and holds a player option for 2027–28, giving him increased leverage heading into potential extension talks this fall.
Milwaukee is still well outside the playoff picture at 12th in the Eastern Conference.
After signaling its intent to keep Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee made a smaller roster move, acquiring Ousmane Dieng in a three-team trade involving the Chicago Bulls and Phoenix Suns.