Bobby Portis shared his thoughts on Giannis Antetokounmpo’s future with the Milwaukee Bucks during a recent appearance on the podcast Run It Back. Portis said he believes the two-time MVP will remain with the Bucks, citing Giannis’s long-standing loyalty and impact on the city.
Portis emphasized that Giannis has been with Milwaukee for over a decade and transformed basketball culture there. He added, via HoopsHype, “I just feel like he bleeds green, man. No matter what’s reported, no matter what might come to the threshold… Like, would you really want to see Giannis in Toronto as a basketball fan?” Portis said the idea of Giannis wearing another team’s jersey “would just look weird.”
This statement comes amid continued uncertainty about Giannis’s long-term status. NBA insider Shams Charania recently noted that Giannis is “actively exploring other options” but has not requested a trade. Charania added the Bucks’ ability to stay competitive plays a big role in the star forward’s decision-making.
The Bucks finished the 2024-25 season with a 48-34 record but failed to advance past the first round of the playoffs for the third consecutive year. Damian Lillard’s expected absence next season and limited trade assets add pressure to Milwaukee’s offseason strategy.
Portis also spoke about his own future with Milwaukee. The 30-year-old forward has a player option for $13.4 million next season but stressed the importance of fair compensation. “I’ve taken a lot of team-friendly deals to be here. We’re at a point now where I feel like it’s time I get compensated—fairly—to my peers,” Portis said.
Portis has been a key contributor this season, averaging 13.9 points and 8.4 rebounds over 49 games. However, he was suspended for 25 games after testing positive for Tramadol earlier this year.
With free agency approaching, the Bucks face critical decisions, not only regarding Giannis but also key players like Portis, Brook Lopez, and Gary Trent.
Giannis is under contract through 2027 with a player option for 2027-28. He posted averages of 30.4 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 6.5 assists this season on 60.1% shooting.
