Milwaukee Bucks head coach Doc Rivers addressed growing speculation surrounding Giannis Antetokounmpo’s future, stating he believes the two-time MVP remains committed to staying with the franchise long-term.
Rivers appeared on The Bill Simmons Podcast, where he pushed back on reports claiming the Bucks have been actively shopping Antetokounmpo.
“It’s so ridiculous,” Rivers said, via HoopsHype, referencing recent trade rumors. “I don’t know how many more times Giannis has to say he wants to be a Buck.”
The 63-year-old coach drew a parallel to a past incident from his time in Boston, when inaccurate trade chatter surrounding Rajon Rondo spread quickly despite no internal discussions.
Rivers emphasized that, like Stephen Curry with Golden State, Antetokounmpo represents a rare case of modern loyalty.
“I don’t think Steph Curry would ever leave Golden State ever and I’m hoping obviously Giannis feels the same way,” Rivers said.
Antetokounmpo, 30, remains under contract through the 2026–27 season, with a player option for 2027–28.
Despite consistent public statements about his loyalty to Milwaukee, the Bucks’ uncertain trajectory has fueled speculation this offseason.
On The Pat McAfee Show last week, NBA insider Shams Charania noted that Antetokounmpo is currently “actively exploring other options” and watching film of different rosters.
Charania also reported that the forward has not requested a trade but is evaluating how the team plans to remain competitive after three straight first-round exits.
With Damian Lillard sidelined to start the 2025–26 season and limited trade assets available, Milwaukee faces a challenging path forward.
The Bucks finished 48–34 in 2024–25 and secured the fifth seed in the Eastern Conference before falling in the opening round.
They also captured the NBA Cup in December but struggled to maintain that momentum in the playoffs.
Key free agency decisions involving Brook Lopez, Bobby Portis, and Gary Trent Jr. are expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the roster’s direction.
The organization has reportedly pitched Antetokounmpo on a larger offensive role next season to maximize his impact as both a scorer and playmaker.
Antetokounmpo averaged 30.4 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 6.5 assists this season on 60.1% shooting, maintaining his status as one of the league’s most dominant forces.
