Giannis Antetokounmpo and his legendary run with the Milwaukee Bucks has officially come to an end.
The blockbuster trade sending Antetokounmpo to the Miami Heat became official on Monday, closing the chapter on a remarkable 13-year career in Milwaukee. Shortly after the deal was finalized, the two-time MVP shared an emotional farewell video across his social media accounts, sitting down with longtime Bucks play-by-play announcer Jim Paschke to reflect on his journey.
“I hope bringing a trophy to this city meant something to them because it meant so much to me,” Antetokounmpo said. “I want you to hear it from my mouth: The city of Milwaukee will always be in my heart. This is my home.
“No matter where I am, Milwaukee will always be my city, my team, my family.”
The trade, agreed to last month, sends Antetokounmpo and Bobby Portis to Miami.
In return, the Bucks receive Tyler Herro, Kel’el Ware, Jaime Jaquez Jr., Kasparas Jakucionis, the No. 13 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, which Milwaukee used to select Nate Ament, along with two future first-round picks, a future pick swap and a second-round selection.
Antetokounmpo leaves Milwaukee as the franchise’s all-time leader in virtually every major statistical category, including points, rebounds, assists, blocks, minutes played and triple-doubles. He also delivered the Bucks’ long-awaited NBA championship in 2021.
Reflecting on his connection with the city, Antetokounmpo explained why Milwaukee will always hold a special place in his life.
“I believe the city of Milwaukee is blue collar,” Antetokounmpo said. “It’s people that work extremely hard every single day, and give all their hard-earned money to come watch the Milwaukee Bucks. To come and feel something, to come be a part of us.
“I hope that I was able to represent them the best that I could. And I was like them. I showed up to work. Did everything that I was willing to do, all the dirty work, just like them.”
The Bucks also paid tribute to their longtime franchise cornerstone. General manager Jon Horst thanked Antetokounmpo for everything he accomplished during his 13 seasons with the organization.
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