Giannis Antetokounmpo has been the face of the Milwaukee Bucks for more than a decade, but even the two-time MVP admits that his future may not be entirely in his hands.
Antetokounmpo was asked if he has ever thought about the possibility of seeing his name on X attached to a trade. His answer showed both honesty and awareness, speaking with Greek outlet Sport24.
“Look, I hope it never happens, but I’m expecting it to,” Antetokounmpo said. “Just because you’ve given a lot to the team doesn’t mean the team won’t do what’s best for itself. It’s not always the same owners. And when I say owners—the team presidents now—they’re not the same as when we won the championship.”
The 30-year-old detailed how he believes management could approach a decision about him down the line.
“It’s someone else,” Antetokounmpo continued. “And if Giannis doesn’t work for me, can’t offer me what I need, I’ll trade him. I’ll do what’s best for my team and my investment. I’ve put hundreds of millions into the team.”
Antetokounmpo went on to explain that his perspective is rooted in staying grounded, not assuming his status exempts him from the business side of the NBA.
“Sure, if my head were in the clouds, I’d say, No way I get traded, I’m Giannis Antetokounmpo. Because I’m not in the clouds and I’m very normal, grounded, I say anything is possible—you never know. When that [Doncic] trade happened, it wasn’t just me who was shocked—anyone who watches basketball was shocked.”
Earlier this summer, reports surfaced suggesting Antetokounmpo was “open-minded about exploring whether his best long-term fit is remaining in Milwaukee or playing elsewhere,” though he remains with the Bucks heading into the 2025-26 season.
While he made it clear he wants to continue in Milwaukee, Antetokounmpo’s remarks underline how even franchise icons feel the uncertainty that comes with today’s NBA. Luka Doncic’s trade to the Lakers was the wake-up call. For Giannis, the message is simple, no player is untouchable.
READ MORE: Luka Doncic Trade to Lakers ‘Forced Him to Grow Up’