In a powerful statement after the Milwaukee Bucks’ 120-113 loss to the Golden State Warriors, Giannis Antetokounmpo shut down persistent trade rumors, declaring he will never ask to leave the franchise that drafted him.
A Joyful Family Scene Amid Speculation
Outside the visitors’ locker room at Chase Center, Giannis was surrounded by his wife Mariah, their four young children, his mother Veronica, and brother Thanasis. The happy family moment—complete with 5-year-old Liam dribbling and shooting at an improvised hoop—stood in stark contrast to the swirling trade talk ahead of the Feb. 5 deadline.
Giannis Draws a Line: No Trade Request Ever
Speaking exclusively to The Athletic on January 8, 2026, the two-time MVP was unequivocal: “There will never be a chance, and there will never be a moment that I will come out and say, ‘I want a trade.’ That’s not … in … my … nature.”
Despite Milwaukee’s disappointing 16-21 record and 11th-place standing in the East, Giannis remains fully committed. He’s averaging 29.5 points (on 64.5% shooting), 10.0 rebounds, and 5.5 assists—numbers matched only by the injured Nikola Jokić—and has missed 14 games due to injury but remains on pace for another MVP-caliber season.
Coach Rivers: ‘Giannis Loves Being in Milwaukee’
Bucks head coach Doc Rivers backed his star, telling reporters the trade rumors are laughable to anyone inside the organization. “Giannis loves being in Milwaukee. He loves playing for this team,” Rivers said, noting that Antetokounmpo has repeatedly affirmed his commitment.
Key Moments from the Interview
- Giannis insisted he is “locked in” and focused only on stacking wins before the All-Star break.
- He compared his daily commitment to relationships: “As of today, I am committed—not 100 percent, but 1 million percent to my teammates, to my craft, to this team and to this city.”
- When pressed on control, he acknowledged he’s an employee but stressed he would never quit on his teammates.
- On winning: “Winning cannot be on your terms… You have to be selfless.”
What’s Next for Giannis and the Bucks?
While Giannis plans to stay in Milwaukee “for the rest of my career—if they want me,” his decision on a potential four-year, $275 million extension eligible October 1 will be the next major signal. For now, the Greek Freak is all-in on turning the season around and proving the Bucks can still compete at the highest level.
