Giannis Antetokounmpo, the two-time NBA MVP, recently signed a new three-year contract extension with the Milwaukee Bucks. In an interview, he explained that he made this decision to keep the focus on basketball and prevent any distractions from affecting the team’s pursuit of a championship this season. Giannis expressed his desire to stay in Milwaukee, stating that he didn’t want people to speculate about his future whenever the team faced a loss. He wanted the conversation to revolve solely around basketball.
This new deal ensures that Giannis will remain with the Bucks until at least the 2027-28 season, bypassing potential free agency in 2025. The announcement came as a surprise to many, as Giannis had previously mentioned his intention to sign an extension next summer. However, after discussing possibilities with his family, including his brother Thanasis, who is also on the team, Giannis decided to secure his future with the Bucks.
Initially, Giannis planned to wait until next summer to sign the extension, believing that he could earn more money by doing so. However, he and his brother devised a strategy that would allow him to maximize his earnings while still signing short-term deals with the Bucks. Giannis emphasized that this decision was not only the smartest for his family but also for his basketball career. He no longer has to worry about his contract and can solely focus on playing the game he loves.
Giannis drew parallels to when he signed his previous extension just before the 2020-21 season. He believed that this move helped the team concentrate on basketball, ultimately leading to their first NBA championship in 50 years. He acknowledged that it wasn’t just beneficial for him but also for the entire team. By eliminating constant speculation about his future, they could fully commit to their goal of winning a championship.
During the offseason, Giannis expressed his desire for the Bucks to demonstrate their commitment to winning another championship before he signed another extension. The team responded by hiring Adrian Griffin as their new head coach and acquiring superstar guard Damian Lillard. While Giannis downplayed the impact of these moves on his decision, he felt a responsibility to put the organization at ease.
Giannis made it clear that he wants to be in Milwaukee and doesn’t want to be a source of stress for the organization or his teammates. He understands the pressure that comes with his status as one of the league’s top players and wants to make it easier for everyone involved. By signing the extension, he believes it puts the team in a better position to compete for a championship.
First-year Bucks coach Adrian Griffin expressed his excitement about Giannis’ decision to stay. He emphasized that Giannis is not a distraction but rather the best player in the world. Griffin considers the extension a testament to Giannis’ dedication and work ethic, highlighting the fact that he was the last person to leave the gym after signing the contract.
With Giannis’ extension, the Bucks have secured their core players on long-term contracts. If Giannis exercises his player option, he and Damian Lillard will be signed through the same season. Additionally, the team re-signed Khris Middleton and Brook Lopez in free agency, further solidifying their roster.
Giannis’ commitment to the Bucks reflects his desire to win. He believes in the team’s potential and is confident that they can achieve greatness together. With their star player locked in for the foreseeable future, the Bucks are poised to make a strong push for another NBA championship.