Giannis Antetokounmpo may have just ended months of trade talk with one candid interview back home in Greece. While the 2025-26 NBA season approaches, rumors about the Milwaukee Bucks star joining the New York Knicks have filled headlines. But according to Giannis himself, the future he envisions is far from Madison Square Garden.
During a recent appearance on ANT1’s The 2night Show, Antetokounmpo spoke openly about the next chapter of his life. He said he plans to keep playing in the NBA for several more years, but when it is time to retire, he wants that moment to happen in Greece.
“I’m 30 years old, I can play in the NBA until I’m 36 or 38,”Giannis said in Greek.“I’d like to end my career with a Greek team. I don’t want to live in the United States. As soon as I leave the NBA, I want to return to Greece.”
He mentioned legendary clubs such as Olympiacos, Panathinaikos, and Aris, and even Filathlitikos, the small team where his journey began before the Bucks drafted him in 2013. His comments arrived shortly after reports surfaced that his wife and children had already moved back to Greece, adding more weight to his words.
Back home may be the finish line, but not yet
Even with retirement on his mind, Giannis made it clear he still has more basketball left to play. The Bucks are also doing everything possible to keep him happy in Milwaukee. The team recently signed his younger brother Alex Antetokounmpo to a two-way deal, joining Giannis and Thanasis on the roster.
I’d like to end my career in a Greek team, why not? I don’t want to live in the United States.
The move feels both personal and strategic. HoopsWire reporter Sam Amico described it as “a nice story and a bit of roster diplomacy.” Milwaukee wants its superstar to stay committed while chasing another championship run.
Still, Giannis’s statement changed the conversation around him. Knicks fans might have hoped to see the two-time MVP in blue and orange someday, but his focus is now on finishing strong with the Bucks before closing his career where it all started: in Greece.
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