Giannis Antetokounmpo says he doesn’t want to stick around with the Milwaukee Bucks unless “everybody’s on the same page” when it comes to chasing another NBA championship.
The unicorn superstar told the New York Times this week that he will not sign an extension unless he’s certain about the team’s commitments going forward. The Bucks won the 2021 NBA title, but were eliminated in the Eastern Conference semifinals the following year, then were stunned by the Miami Heat in the first round last season.
Antetokounmpo has two years and a player option remaining on his current contract, but said he will not sign an extension without seeing some changes in attitude on the team.
“I would not be the best version of myself if I don’t know that everybody’s on the same page, everybody’s going for a championship, everybody’s going to sacrifice time away from their family like I do. And if I don’t feel that, I’m not signing,” Antetokounmpo said.
The seven-time All-Star did more than his share last season, scoring a career-high 31.1 points per game, with 11.8 rebounds. He made it clear to the Times he loves Milwaukee and its fans, and would like to play his entire career there.
However, he wants to see a commitment to winning another title.
“I believe that we’ve had 10 unbelievable years, and there’s no doubt I gave everything for the city of Milwaukee,” he said. “Everything. Every single night, even when I’m hurt. I am a Milwaukee Buck. I bleed green. I know this.”
“But at the end of the day, being a winner, it’s over that goal. Winning a championship comes first. I don’t want to be 20 years on the same team and don’t win another championship.”
About Arthur Weinstein
Arthur spends his free time traveling around the U.S. to sporting events, state and national parks, and in search of great restaurants off the beaten path.