Doc Rivers' Steph Curry Message After Giannis Antetokounmpo News

Originally posted on Athlon Sports
By Ayomide P. Adeduyite | Last updated Jun 17, 2025 2:35 PM ET

NBA trade chatter around superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo intensified following another first-round exit for the Milwaukee Bucks against the Indiana Pacers. Antetokounmpo followed up his MVP-caliber season with another impressive performance in the series against the Pacers, averaging 33.0 points, 15.4 rebounds, and 6.6 assists per game.

However, the two time-MVP’s standout performance—highlighted by a 30/20/13 triple-double in Game 5—was not enough to propel Milwaukee past Indiana, as his team fell short in a 4-1 defeat.

The Bucks’ disappointing exit for the third straight year raised questions about the team’s supporting cast and trajectory, and rumors began to grow about whether Antetokounmpo might seek a fresh start elsewhere, with the most recent reports linking him to the Toronto Raptors (via Doug Smith of the Toronto Star).

Despite the growing rumors that Toronto could make a serious push for Antetokounmpo, the Bucks star recently made it clear he plans on returning to Milwaukee (h/t Eurohoops).

Following this news, Milwaukee Bucks head coach Doc Rivers addressed these speculations publicly during an appearance on the Bill Simmons Podcast, calling the trade rumors "ridiculous."

The NBA Championship head coach also made a pointed analogy about Antetokounmpo’s intentions to stay in Milwaukee, naming Golden State Warriors guard Steph Curry.

“But with certain guys, I don’t think Steph Curry would ever leave Golden State ever and I’m hoping obviously Giannis feels the same way," he said. "That’s the way he’s been so far and it’s been great. It’s been awesome.”

Steph Curry's long-term tenure in Golden State is well-documented. Despite setbacks, he’s remained steadfast, building a legacy that has culminated in four NBA Championships. Rivers draws that parallel, suggesting Antetokounmpo shares that DNA and will not opt to leave—despite external pressures.

Antetokounmpo, for his part, has repeatedly reaffirmed his loyalty. With a contract stretching to 2027-28 and no formal trade request, signs point to Antetokounmpo returning for another season with the Bucks.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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