Giannis Antetokounmpo receives clarity on his future with the Bucks from team president

The Milwaukee Bucks enter the 2025 NBA offseason with more questions than answers after a disappointing campaign that fell short of expectations. Despite high hopes surrounding the star duo of Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard, the team’s early playoff exit and subsequent roster changes have left fans uncertain about what’s next. While Lillard’s departure has fueled speculation, the franchise made clear where things stand with their cornerstone.

Following Lillard’s exit, rumors swirled that Antetokounmpo might request a trade as the Bucks entered what some believe is a transitional phase. However, Bucks President Peter Feigin recently addressed the speculation and reaffirmed the team’s commitment to building around the two-time MVP.

“We kind of laugh internally — it’s where we’ve been for 10 years,” Feigin told local media. “Giannis loves Milwaukee, Milwaukee loves Giannis. We’re in a good place and we feel great about it. It’s business as usual.”

Feigin added that the team is unfazed by external noise and remains focused on preparing for next season. “I think we get a kind of fun little joy in everybody else thinking they know what’s going on and what the clickbait is,” he said. “But for us, we’re in a good spot. Giannis is in a good place, enjoying the summer, and we’re looking forward to next season.”

Antetokounmpo once again played at an elite level in 2024-25, finishing third in MVP voting behind Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Nikola Jokic. The 30-year-old averaged 30.4 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 6.5 assists per game, maintaining the dominant standard he has set for nearly a decade.

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Milwaukee’s postseason, however, ended in disappointment. After Lillard suffered an injury, the Bucks were eliminated in the first round by the Indiana Pacers. Still, the NBA series offered a silver lining. The Bucks were reportedly impressed by Pacers center Myles Turner, whom they signed in free agency to bolster their frontcourt depth.

Without Lillard, the Bucks face uncertainty at the guard position. Kevin Porter Jr. has been brought in as a potential replacement, but questions remain about whether that will be enough to keep Milwaukee in championship contention.

The Bucks may need to act quickly this offseason. Either they pursue additional reinforcements through trades or free agency, or they will have to adapt their system around Giannis and the remaining core. For now, though, the message from the front office is one of stability — at least when it comes to their franchise player.