Just a few weeks back, Giannis Antetokounmpo made a sudden social media move that caught the attention of many fans. The two-time MVP deleted all his tweets that dated back to July 2021. The Greek Freak did not explain the decision. But the action was enough to restart trade rumors that had largely died down after the offseason. Now, the Bucks superstar has finally spoken out.
Giannis Antetokounmpo Has Commented Regarding the Trade Rumors
After the win against the Chicago Bulls on Saturday night, it was during the post-game interview that Antetokounmpo was asked to comment on the current rumors surrounding his departure from the Bucks team. The Bucks star interrupted and went on to state that it is disrespectful to ask him questions like this.
“I’m here. I’m here. I’m here. Don’t ask me that question. I’m here. It’s disrespectful towards myself and my teammates. I wear that jersey every single day. Disrespectful towards the organization, my coaching staff, and all of the people that work hard for me to come out here and say ‘I don’t want to be here’.”
“Don’t ask me that question. I’m here, I’m putting on the jersey. And as long as I’m here, I’m going to give everything I have, even in the last second of the game,” said Antetokounmpo during the interview.
The rumors of him leaving the Bucks have already intensified due to the social media move. It even got more intense just a few days ago. It was when ESPN’s Brian Windhorst confirmed that Antetokounmpo really approached the Bucks during the offseason about a potential move to New York.
“The Bucks called the Knicks and asked for an offer for Giannis, because Giannis said, ‘I want to be a Knick.’ Then, people were like, ‘Oh my god, he deleted a photo from May where he had a Bucks logo on it.’ Guys, he asked to be traded already,” said Windhorst during an ESPN segment.
However, with the performance Antetokounmpo is showing for the Bucks, it is clear that he is fully committed to the team. If we look at his current averages of 28.9 points, 10.0 rebounds, and 5.8 assists per game. However, even with his contribution, the Bucks are unable to do much. They are currently holding a 13-19 record in the league.
In the latest game, which was against the Bulls, Antetokounmpo scored 29 points and shot 10/15 from the field. Milwaukee controlled the game early, holding a two-point lead after the first quarter and extending that lead to four points by halftime. The Bucks then took complete control in the second half, scoring 58 points. The Bulls could not handle and Chicago eventually fell (112–103).
Milwaukee will now prepare for its next matchup. The Milwaukee Bucks face the Charlotte Hornets on December 29, and for now, Antetokounmpo’s strong words and play have helped put a temporary stop to the trade talks.
