NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal gives advice to Giannis Antetokounmpo about his future amid rumors

Giannis Antetokounmpo recently wrapped up one of the most impressive statistical seasons of his career. However, the Milwaukee Bucks could not advance past the first round of the playoffs. Additionally, star teammate Damian Lillard might miss much of the 2025-26 season, fueling speculation about Antetokounmpo’s potential departure. In response, NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal offered the Greek star some seasoned advice regarding his future.

“I would tell him they’re probably throwing in his face bigger market, doesn’t matter. Social media is the market now. You know, Giannis has made a name for himself on social media. Like, you go to LA (Los Angeles Lakers), that’s 50% of your contract goes to taxes, more pressure and more, more stress, being that he’s in the control of that ship, he should go upstairs and be like, I want to see all the free agents,” Shaq O’Neal said, via Good Word with Goodwill.

Rumors have been swirling about Giannis Antetokounmpo’s potential departure. NBA insiders continue to suggest a move to Los Angeles. However, no official offers have emerged so far. And Lakers are not his only option. Several franchises are expected to enter the race for the Greek superstar.

For that reason, Giannis could still focus on finding a serious sports project instead of chasing a bigger market. Shaq supported this idea by comparing his era to the present. He made his point clear: “When I was coming up, it was small market, too small. You probably need to go to a big market. I took advantage of that, but now every market is the same. Nobody cares what city you’re in anymore. This ain’t the 90s,” Shaq affirmed, via Good Word with Goodwill.

Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks plays against the Detroit Pistons in a NBA Cup game at Little Caesars Arena.

Giannis Antetokounmpo eyeing unexpected move to surprising NBA franchise

In a surprising development, the Toronto Raptors have entered the race for NBA superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo. Doug Smith of the Toronto Star reported that both parties have shown mutual interest in exploring a deal. They aim to finalize arrangements ahead of the 2025-26 NBA season.

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Meanwhile, ESPN’s Brian Windhorst emphasizes the Raptors’ determination to acquire a marquee player. This move aims to enhance their competitiveness in the tightly contested Eastern Conference. However, rumors have suggested that Giannis prefers a team where he can share offensive leadership with another star.

This does not rule out the possibility of the Greek star joining the Raptors, yet the deal remains far from finalized. As a result, other franchises could step in to attract Giannis’s interest. Additionally, the Milwaukee Bucks are expected to make strong efforts to retain him. With these dynamics in play, securing Giannis’s signature will not be easy, and the offseason countdown promises to be lengthy.