How rookie Giannis Antetokounmpo’s one decision made him a villain for Bucks fans, ‘I had no idea…’

When it’s all said and done, Giannis’ jersey will be hanging in the rafters. But before becoming a superstar for the Bucks, Antetokounmpo briefly became a villain for the fanbase.

Giannis Antetokounmpo was criticized for wearing Ray Allen’s No. 34 jersey

Years before the Greek Freak was welcomed to the Bucks, NBA legend Ray Allen donned the #34 jersey for the franchise from 1997 to 2003.

While Allen never won a title with the Bucks, he remained a beloved figure among the fanbase. As a result, Giannis faced some flak for wearing the #34 jersey during his rookie year.

“When I came to the team and took #34, I had no idea Ray Allen wore it before me and a lot of people were mad about it. … Yes! Who is this Greek kid?” Giannis revealed on the Thanalysis Show.

Today, Giannis is one of the most dominant players in the NBA and a prime contender to become the next face of the NBA.

But when he was drafted, Antetokounmpo lacked his muscular physique, which made many question the Bucks’ decision to allow him to wear Allen’s iconic number.

Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Milwaukee Bucks future is in doubt

Over the last 13 years or so, Antetokounmpo has built an incredible legacy with the Bucks, including delivering a title to the organization.

Unfortunately, in recent years, the Bucks have failed to provide Giannis with a roster capable of competing for another NBA Championship.

Now, the rumor mill is buzzing with Antetokounmpo leaving the team sooner rather than later to salvage the remainder of his prime.

Of course, the Bucks have denied the trade rumors, but if Antetokounmpo indeed asks out, it wouldn’t be a surprising decision.