By Cyreel Zarate

 

Giannis Antetokounmpo has made it clear that he will never demand a trade amid loud rumors surrounding his future with the Milwaukee Bucks.

 

Coincidentally, Antetokounmpo addressed the speculation following the Bucks’ 113–120 loss to the Golden State Warriors on Thursday (PH time), the very team that has been linked with a move for the two-time NBA MVP.

 

“There will never be a chance, and there will never be a moment that I will come out and say, ‘I want a trade,’” Antetokounmpo told Sam Amick of The Athletic. “That’s not in my nature.”

 

Antetokounmpo still faces a major decision, as he becomes eligible for a four-year, $275 million extension on October 2 and holds a player option in the summer of 2027. Those choices could strongly influence his future.

 

“My plan is to be here for the rest of my career,” Antetokounmpo added. “If they don’t want me … I’m not the one in charge. I am an employee.”

 

The 31-year-old is averaging 29.5 points, 10.0 rebounds, and 5.5 assists this season. However, the Bucks sit in 11th place in the Eastern Conference with a paltry 16–21 record.

 

ESPN reported before the start of the season that the Bucks and Knicks discussed a potential trade over the summer, with New York emerging as Antetokounmpo’s preferred destination.

 

Nonetheless, the Bucks are focused on strengthening their roster in an effort to build around their superstar big man.

 

“I am not [going anywhere],” he said. “I am invested in this team. I want to turn this team around. I want to play good basketball. I want to be healthy. I want to help my teammates. I want to win games. The last six games we’ve played, we’re 4–2. We have a lot of games in front of us. I’m locked the f--- in. I’m locked in. My priority is just staying healthy.”