MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN – FEBRUARY 04: Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks works out before game against the New Orleans Pelicans at Fiserv Forum on February 04, 2026 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by John Fisher/Getty Images)

...

Eric Jay Santos

By Eric Jay Santos

0

Share

Newsweek is a Trust Project member

See more of our trusted coverage when you search.Prefer Newsweek on Googleto see more of our trusted coverage when you search.

Throughout the 2025-2026 season, Giannis Antetokounmpo was one of the top names on the NBA trade market. While speculation continued to build around Antetokounmpo, the Milwaukee Bucks did not move the two-time MVP before February’s deadline.

It was reported that the Miami Heat, Minnesota Timberwolves, New York Knicks, and Golden State Warriors were among the serious suitors to land the 10-time All-Star.

In an interview with ESPN's Malika Andrews, Antetokounmpo expressed his thoughts toward the Bucks.

Read More on NBA

"As of today, I'm committed to the Milwaukee Bucks. I'm committed to the people that I work with, my teammates, the coaching staff, Coach Doc [Rivers] and [GM] Jon [Horst] in the front office. What I've said from the beginning of this year is that, out of my mouth and the way I've carried myself, you will never hear me say I don't want to be a Milwaukee Buck."

The 31-year-old Antetokounmpo is currently on a three-year, $275 million deal. Without an extension, he is set to become an unrestricted free agent in 2027.

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - JANUARY 23: Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks dribbles the ball against the Denver Nuggets during the third quarter at Fiserv Forum on January 23, 2026 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images)

...

A Challenging Season

This season, Antetokounmpo is averaging 28.0 points, 10.0 rebounds, and 5.6 assists over 30 games. While a right calf strain will prevent him from participating, he was selected for the 2026 NBA All-Star Game.

In terms of team success, the Bucks are positioned 12th in the Eastern Conference standings. The playoffs are still within reach for Milwaukee, though the franchise will need a boost of momentum heading into the second half of the season.

Antetokounmpo’s surrounding cast includes the likes of Ryan Rollins, Kevin Porter Jr., Cam Thomas, Kyle Kuzma, Myles Turner, and Bobby Portis. These players are all averaging double-digits in scoring this season.

When Antetokounmpo suffered his calf injury on January 23, he was projected to return to action within four to six weeks. Recent reports suggest that the Greek native may be ready to play shortly after All-Star Weekend.

The Bucks’ pursuit of a tenth consecutive playoff appearance may be reliant on Antetokounmpo’s availability. He is ineligible for major end-of-season awards, having failed to meet the mandatory 65-game minimum.

For all the latest NBA news and rumors, head over to Newsweek Sports.

View 0 Comments

Request Reprint & Licensing

Submit Correction

View Editorial & AI Guidelines