Milwaukee Bucks legend and broadcaster Marques Johnson expressed confidence that Giannis Antetokounmpo will stay in Milwaukee, citing the franchise’s commitment to surrounding him with family and a competitive roster.
Speaking to Mark Medina of Essentially Sports, Johnson pointed to the Bucks’ recent signing of Giannis’s younger brother, Alex Antetokounmpo, as a key signal of stability. “The Bucks just signed Thanasis. They just signed Alex. We have three brothers with the same franchise. Where’s he going to go? Why would he leave?” Johnson said.
Johnson emphasized that Giannis’s sense of loyalty to Milwaukee runs deeper than basketball. “People don’t understand about Giannis’ loyalty. That’s the thing that’s going to supersede everything else,” he noted. He added that Antetokounmpo’s occasional remarks about keeping management “on their toes” are more about motivation than uncertainty.
The Bucks recently became the first team in NBA history to feature three active brothers on their roster — Giannis, Thanasis, and Alex Antetokounmpo. The move reflects Milwaukee’s strategy to strengthen its culture and maintain its bond with the two-time MVP as he enters a pivotal year in his contract.
Alex Antetokounmpo, 24, signed a two-way deal allowing him to split time between the Bucks and their G League affiliate, the Wisconsin Herd. Last season, he averaged 5.7 points and 2.9 rebounds in 22.3 minutes per game for the Herd while continuing to develop as a versatile forward.
Johnson also expressed optimism about Milwaukee’s revamped roster under head coach Doc Rivers. “We’ve got a good mix. We’re a modern-era basketball team now,” he said. “We’ve got young, athletic players like OKC and Indiana had last season – the two finalists.”
Following the waiving of Damian Lillard due to an Achilles injury, the Bucks added Myles Turner. Johnson believes these changes have made the team deeper and more balanced.
“So we’re going to be alright. We’re going to compete,” Johnson said. “Myles Turner is going to play well with Giannis. You talk about selflessness. Myles gives up himself on the floor to get better shots for teammates and provides a lot of things defensively.”
The Bucks are expected to contend in the Eastern Conference, with Johnson predicting a top-four finish if the team stays healthy. “We’re younger, athletic, and Giannis is surrounded by great shooting,” he added. “It looks very good right now.”
