Thanasis Antetokounmpo has explained what convinced him to join Aris, while leaving open the possibility that Giannis Antetokounmpo could one day follow him to Thessaloniki.
Asked during Thursday’s preseason media day whether he and Giannis might eventually become teammates again, Thanasis did not rule it out.
“We’ll see, we’ll see,” he teased. “First, we have to do what needs to be done, and everything else will follow.”
The 34-year-old returns to Greek basketball following a long NBA stint, where much of his value came through his energy and presence within the locker room. A visit to an Aris game with Giannis last year played an important role in changing how he viewed a possible return to Greece.
“That moment was definitely a factor,” he mentioned. “I witnessed the hunger of the fans, but also something deeper and unique that I hadn’t felt in a very long time. It wasn’t just their love for the game or for our family.”
The passion surrounding the Thessaloniki club particularly appealed to Antetokounmpo, who wants to contribute to an ambitious project.
“These fans need something to rally around,” he expanded on the unique atmosphere. “I truly love being part of teams that aspire to achieve things that have never been done before.”
His arrival also gives Thanasis another opportunity to play alongside one of his brothers. Alex previously represented Aris in 2025, while Kostas is now expected to have a prominent role under head coach Vassilis Spanoulis.
“I am absolutely thrilled,” Thanasis said of his reunion with Kostas. “Aside from the national team, where we played together and won a medal, we also shared the court back at Filathlitikos. It feels wonderful to step back into that role as the big brother. I’m happy to check that box off my list.”
