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How Knicks fans convinced Antetokounmpo to want to play in NYC
Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo. Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

How Knicks fans convinced Giannis Antetokounmpo to want to play in New York

Giannis Antetokounmpo may have finally reached a breaking point with the Milwaukee Bucks.

While he hasn't publicly requested a trade yet, he and his camp will reportedly discuss that possibility. ESPN NBA insider Brian Windhorst revealed that the former Finals MVP wants to play for the New York Knicks.

Now, fellow insider Jake Fischer shared similar information, adding that the Greek Freak's desire to play in the Big Apple might be rooted in the fan base's soccer-like passion.

Giannis Antetokounmpo's desire to be traded to Knicks is rooted in a bizarre reason

"After some further calls, I can confirm that the Knicks — as well as playing in Madison Square Garden — were the specific 'temptation' that Giannis himself publicly acknowledged on Bucks Media Day as an outcome he pondered during the summer," Fischer wrote. "I've even heard that the rowdy fan base gatherings outside the arena following playoff victories that the Knicks are known for have resonated, given his natural fondness for the emotionally charged support so prevalent for basketball and soccer clubs throughout Europe."

The Knicks also happen to be one of the few teams that could realistically put together a trade package to acquire the former Defensive Player of the Year. They could either build a package around Mikal Bridges or Karl-Anthony Towns. 

Giannis is expected to miss close to a month with a calf injury. While some reports suggest that he will wait until the end of the season to make up his mind, he may have played his final game with the Bucks. 

Ernesto Cova

Ernesto is a bilingual (English-Spanish) sports writer with over eight years of experience covering major leagues such as the NBA, NFL, and MLB. Ernesto’s work focuses on providing insightful, up-to-date coverage of sports, blending his expertise in sports psychology with a passion for analyzing player performance, team dynamics, and trade developments across various sports leagues

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