Over the past couple seasons, Milwaukee Bucks veteran Giannis Antetokounmpo has morphed into a true superstar around the NBA. At just 23 years old, he’s proving himself to be among the most freakish of players to ever step on an NBA court. Hence, the Greek Freak nickname.
Fresh off playing in the All-Star Game in Los Angeles this past weekend, questions have come up regarding Antetokounmpo’s future in Milwaukee. He still has three years remaining on a four-year, $100 million extension he signed with the Bucks back in 2016. But Giannis is set to hit free agency before he even turns 27. Needless to say, many large-market teams would then have interest in his services.
Unfortunately for the two Los Angeles-based teams, Antetokounmpo has absolutely no interest in playing in Southern California.
“I could never see myself being out there. It’s great for two, three days but it’s a little bit — things are going a little bit crazy,” Antetokounmpo said, via the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. “Of course, because of the All-Star Game, there was a lot of people there. … In Milwaukee — I love Milwaukee — it’s low-key. I can walk down the road, down the streets without anybody bugging me — nobody interrupts my conversation or anything. I love how quiet and calm Milwaukee is.”
This is totally understandable. The bright lights of Hollywood or New York City isn’t for everyone. It’s also pretty positive news for the small-market Bucks. Most figured Giannis might want to move on to a larger NBA city. Become an even bigger brand. Obviously, that doesn’t seem to be in the cards moving forward in his career.
As his Bucks prepare for a playoff push, Antetokounmpo heads into the unofficial second half of the season averaging 27.8 points and 10.4 rebounds while shooting at a 54 percent mark from the field. He’s the toast of Milwaukee. He will continue to be the toast of Milwaukee. And it seems that he’s more than okay with that.