Shaquille O’Neal believes Giannis Antetokounmpo doesn’t need to leave Milwaukee to chase championships or boost his brand.
Speaking to Yahoo Sports, the Hall of Famer said the two-time MVP should leverage his star power without worrying about big-market appeal. “Social media is the market now,” O’Neal said. “Nobody cares what city you’re in, this ain’t the ’90s.”
Antetokounmpo’s future has been the subject of heavy speculation since the Bucks’ first-round exit to the Indiana Pacers. Despite winning the NBA Cup in December, Milwaukee’s early postseason elimination and midseason trade of Khris Middleton raised doubts about the team’s long-term vision.
O’Neal, one of the few stars to have played in both small and large markets, warned of the downsides that come with a move to places like Los Angeles. “Fifty percent of your contract goes to taxes, more pressure and more stress,” he said.
Instead, the four-time champion suggested Antetokounmpo take on a more assertive role in shaping the Bucks’ roster. “He should go upstairs and be like, ‘I want to see all the free agents, I want phone numbers and I want to talk to them.’”
While teams like the Rockets and Raptors continue to monitor the situation, momentum toward a possible trade has slowed. According to NBA insider Jake Fischer, several front offices that once believed Antetokounmpo could be on the move are now growing skeptical.
The Bucks finished fifth in the East with a 48–34 record. Antetokounmpo averaged 30.4 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 6.5 assists on 60.1 percent shooting.
Houston, which ended the regular season 52–30, remains one of the few teams with the draft capital and young core to present a serious offer without overhauling its roster.
Toronto, despite missing the playoffs, has also been linked to Antetokounmpo amid reports of mutual interest.
Antetokounmpo is under contract through 2026–27, with a player option the following year.
