Bucks Zone

The Milwaukee Bucks are Dame’s team, says Giannis Antetokounmpo

Giannis Antetokounmpo makes a bold statement declaring that "the Milwaukee Bucks are Dame's team."

Jonas Panerio

© Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports
In this story:

Giannis Antetokounmpo is here to play the long game. He understands how tricky it can be to integrate a seven-time All-Star and All-NBA player into a core that won an NBA title a few years ago. To make the transition more seamless, Giannis has taken it upon himself to announce that the Bucks are no longer his but Lillard’s team.

Got to feel comfortable

Lillard arrived in Milwaukee in a blockbuster three-team trade involving the Phoenix Suns. After spending over a decade as the Trail Blazers’ undisputed go-to guy, the shifty, high-scoring guard is now expected to share the scoring and playmaking chores with the likes of Giannis and another veteran in Khris Middleton.

However, Giannis knows having Lillard feel comfortable in his new surroundings will go a long way to make the transition smoother.

“Basically, I might be here but this is his team," Giannis said in a talk with Bleacher Report’s Chris Haynes.

“At the end of the day, for him to feel successful, [he's] got to feel very comfortable.”

Brings Bucks to new heights

Lillard averaged a career-high 32.2 points last season for Portland, which means his presence on the floor will instantly elevate the Bucks’ ceiling. He'll also bring a veteran presence to the locker room and help add an extra layer of grit and determination to the team. 

Dame's a proven leader who understands what it takes to win in this league, something that could be invaluable for the Bucks as they embark on a brand-new season.

“He elevates us to a different level,” Giannis said. “I'm excited. This is the best team I've ever been a part of.”

“It kind of feels like a road game”- Damian Lillard talks about his Bucks debut

Published
Jonas Panerio
JONAS PANERIO