Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks are regrouping after a tough 2025-26 NBA regular season. Antetokounmpo himself played up to his standards — that is, when he did play. Appearing in a career-low 36 games, the Greek Freak still produced, scoring 27.6 points per game, 9.8 rebounds and 5.4 assists while shooting 62.4% from the field.
Milwaukee, on the other hand, struggled last season. The Bucks finished 32-50, placing No. 11 in the Eastern Conference and No. 3 in the Central Division. Head coach Doc Rivers was let go after two and a half seasons in Milwaukee. Trade rumors about Antetokounmpo persisted all season and continue to swirl, with the 6-foot-11 forward calling Miami a “beautiful city” on Saturday.
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During an episode of Gogi’s Garage that aired Friday, Giannis admitted that he should have shut down the trade talk earlier. Now, it appears Antetokounmpo wants to further reassure fans of his loyalty.
On Monday, Giannis took to social media to send a message following the trade rumors over the weekend. The native of Greece spoke about how it was one of the toughest seasons of his career and how he plans to use that pain as fuel. He also thanked Bucks fans for their loyalty, declaring Milwaukee his city.
“Year 13 ✅📖 This has been one of the toughest seasons of my career, but as they say, like a phoenix from the ashes, I’ll rise. 💯 To the city of Milwaukee, MY city, thank you for the unwavering love and support. 🤎”
Antetokounmpo is signed through the 2026-27 NBA season and has a $62.8 million player option for 2027-28.
