BREAKING: Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo has made it clear he is determined to win a second championship, whether with the Bucks or another team. During a video call from Greece on Monday, Giannis confirmed reports from ESPN’s Shams Charania that he explored his options over the summer, stating, “I want to be in a team that allows me… to win a championship.”
The urgency of Giannis’s statement comes as he sits out the start of training camp due to a positive COVID-19 test. Bucks General Manager Jon Horst emphasized the team’s commitment to Giannis, stating, “This team is built to maximize Giannis, but Giannis can actually maximize this team.” Despite the setbacks, the Bucks are hopeful for a fresh start this season, especially with the recent acquisition of center Myles Turner.
Giannis’s frustrations are palpable; the Bucks have faced early playoff exits for three consecutive seasons, with their last playoff advancement occurring in 2022. “I want to be among the best. I want to compete with the best and I want to win another championship,” he reiterated, expressing dissatisfaction with the team’s recent performance.
Earlier this month, Giannis led Team Greece to a bronze medal at the FIBA Eurobasket 2025, showcasing his talent with a stunning 30 points, alongside 17 rebounds, in the third-place game on September 14. This achievement, he called, “the greatest basketball accomplishment of my life.” Yet, as the rest of the Bucks report for training camp, Giannis remains in Greece, where Horst stated, “We don’t think it’s safe for him to be around our team.”
While exploring his options this summer, Giannis has not lost faith in his teammates. “I believe in the people around me. I believe in my teammates,” he said. However, he expressed concern over the team’s performance, stating, “We just got to put our heads down and stay locked in the whole year long and try to win some games and hopefully get in the playoffs.”
Bucks managing governor Wes Edens also expressed confidence in Giannis, recalling a conversation they had in June where Giannis conveyed his commitment to Milwaukee. “He likes being here, likes his family being here,” Edens said. Nevertheless, Giannis later remarked he did not recall that conversation, hinting at ongoing uncertainty.
As the Bucks prepare for the upcoming season, all eyes are on Giannis and his commitment to the team. With the stakes higher than ever, fans eagerly await to see if Milwaukee can deliver a deep playoff run this year. The urgency is clear: the Bucks must rebound from their recent struggles, and Giannis is determined to lead the way.
Expect further updates as training camp progresses and Giannis’s health continues to develop. The pressure is on for Giannis and the Bucks to not just make the playoffs, but to advance beyond the first round and contend for a championship once again.
