Giannis Antetokounmpo addressed the media Saturday ahead of the 2026 NBA All-Star Game at the Intuit Dome, discussing his recovery, commitment to Milwaukee, and thoughts on basketball’s global reach.
On his rehab, the two-time MVP said, “I feel good. I feel 100% to be honest with you. I just got to… check the boxes, play one-on-one, three-and-three, five versus five. Once I check all those boxes, I’m ready to go. I feel like I can play a game today.”
Reflecting on Milwaukee, Antetokounmpo shared, “It’s a beautiful city. I’ve spoken so much about my journey coming from international play… keep disciplined to yourself and to your craft, and hopefully that helps you be seen.”
Giannis highlighted his respect for opponents, praising Spurs guard Stephon Castle. “He definitely helps his team. One thing I love about him is… he takes the challenge of guarding the opponent’s best player. Players that do two-way play, offense and defense, I’m a big fan of them, and he’s one of them.”
The Greek Freak sent a message to his international fans, particularly in the Philippines. “Love you guys. Keep on supporting the NBA. Keep on watching the Milwaukee Bucks. Keep on supporting me and my family. See you guys soon.”
He also reflected on friend and former teammate Jabari Parker’s career. “He’s grown as a player, grown as a person… just be able to stick with it and keep finding joy in the game of basketball. Whatever decision he decides moving forward, I think it will be the right one for him.”
Addressing trade rumors, Antetokounmpo emphasized his loyalty. “I feel really good. I feel secure. How much I love the city of Milwaukee, how much I’m locked into the season… I’m committed to my teammates, my coaches, and the front office that have believed in me for 13 years.”
On daily life and maintaining peak performance, he said, “Water, a lot of greens, breakfast always… I try to eat five meals a day, a lot of small meals, and stay hydrated.”
Giannis also discussed potential future ventures as a player-owner. “If there’s opportunity to be an owner in sports, anything, I will consider it 1000%. I love the game of basketball, and anywhere I can be involved with it, I would want to be involved.”
On comparisons to athletes outside basketball, he said, “If I put Messi or Ronaldo, I relate more to Ronaldo… hard work, discipline, take care of your body, consistent. He’s 41 now, still playing at a high level. That’s closer to my mindset.”
Giannis, sidelined due to injury, will miss the All-Star festivities, with De’Aaron Fox replacing him on USA Stripes. The 2026 All-Star Game debuts a USA vs. the World format in a round-robin tournament hosted by the Clippers at the Intuit Dome.
