'I want to win': Giannis Antetokounmpo drops hint on Bucks future

This could be the strongest sign yet that Giannis Antetokounmpo might seek a move if the Bucks’ 2025-26 campaign falls short of expectations. The nine-time All-Star has made it clear that his top priority is winning, even if it means stepping away from the comfort and familiarity he’s built in Milwaukee.

“I’m not satisfied with just being in my comfort zone and being in a place if we are not competing. It’s easy for me to make a decision of say, I’m here 13 years, the city loves me. This is my comfort zone. I can drive with my eyes closed to the arena. I know the route, I know every turn. I know how [to get here] with my eyes closed,” Giannis Antetokounmpo continued.

“I know how the game is going to be played. I know everybody in this building, I know everybody in the arena, but that’s your comfort zone. I try to get out of my comfort zone because that’s where I know I excel. And I want to keep on pushing myself to be uncomfortable. I don’t want to be in my comfort zone.”

Giannis Antetokounmpo in borrowed time with the Bucks

Antetokounmpo clearly recognizes his standing in Milwaukee. At 30 years old, he remains deeply cherished by the fanbase, who see him as the face of the franchise. The Bucks’ management has also made every effort to cater to him, even bringing in his brothers, Thanasis and Alex, to strengthen his connection to the team and city.

Everything in the Bucks centers around Antetokounmpo, and few players across the league hold the same level of influence. While it would be easy for him to stay content with his status, his focus remains on chasing another championship rather than settling for comfort.

Antetokounmpo guided the Bucks to an NBA title in 2021, and at the time, many believed that run would mark the beginning of a dominant stretch for Milwaukee. Instead, the team has struggled to replicate that success, managing to win only one playoff series since their championship season.

The Greek Freak could hit free agency as soon as 2027 by declining his $62.7 million player option for the 2027-28 campaign. Should he decide he wants out before then, the Bucks would almost certainly have to trade him rather than risk losing him for nothing. For now, he insists he’s committed to Milwaukee, though he acknowledged that his outlook could change within the next six or seven months.