Weekly Review: Giannis Antetokounmpo sets the tone for his next contract

The future of Giannis in Milwaukee hangs in the balance.

© Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports

The Milwaukee Bucks’ commitment to winning will ultimately help two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo decide whether he wants to re-sign with the squad. Although the “Greek Freak” is signed through the 2024-2025 season, he is eligible to sign an extension, thus fueling talks of a major deal with the Bucks.

1. "If I don't feel that, I'm not signing" - Giannis Antetokounmpo remains non-committal regarding contract extension with the Milwaukee Bucks

Giannis, the versatile forward, emphasized the need to assess the team's progress under new head coach Adrian Griffin before deciding on a new contract. While he is known for being an easy-going star, there is one requirement he stands firm on — winning. The team must demonstrate its ability to achieve success before committing to a long-term agreement.

“You've got to see the dynamics,” Antetokounmpo said. “How the coach is going to be, how we're going to be together. At the end of the day, I feel like all my teammates know, and the organization knows that I want to win a championship. As long as we're on the same page with that, and you show me, and we go together to win a championship, I'm all for it."

2. Giannis says he's open to playing in Saudi Arabia once his NBA career is done

Giannis also doubled down on his recent comments about playing for Saudi Arabia’s premier football squad, Al-Hilal, saying he would love to head to the Middle Eastern kingdom and carve out a career there once his NBA days are done.

3. Nikola Vucevic names Giannis Antetokounmpo to his best European starting five

Giannis is one of the best basketball players to come from Europe. NBA All-Star Nikola Vucevic knows this and gave the “Greek Freak” a spot on his best European starting five list.

4. Bobby Portis' "blue-collar mentality" is crucial if Team USA is to succeed in the 2023 FIBA World Cup

On a team filled with All-Stars and up-and-coming aces, Bobby Portis’ veteran presence and blue-collar approach to the game will be invaluable if Team USA is to succeed in the 2023 FIBA World Cup.

Bobby Portis #PhantomCam 💥 pic.twitter.com/1mPrzfmCGr

— NBA (@NBA) August 18, 2023

5. ESPN predicts Giannis Antetokounmpo will fall short of winning third MVP trophy

With the brand-new season still a long way off, ESPN has already released their predictions as to who will win the 2021 MVP award. Giannis Antetokounmpo is projected to come up short in his quest for a third MVP trophy.