Amid trade speculation that persisted after his December dismissal, Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo has firmly stated he will never request a trade, in his most emphatic reaffirmation of commitment yet. In an exclusive interview following a 120-113 loss to the Golden State Warriors on January 7, 2026, the two-time MVP stressed his desire to stay in Milwaukee long-term, focusing on health and wins as the Bucks languish at 16-21 in the East.
Building on his December comments dismissing earlier rumors, Giannis Antetokounmpo addressed ongoing trade buzz in a candid interview with The Athletic after the Milwaukee Bucks' 120-113 defeat to the Golden State Warriors on January 7, 2026, at Chase Center in San Francisco. The 31-year-old forward, who can opt out of his contract in the summer of 2027, made his strongest denial yet, declaring, "There will never be a chance, and there will never be a moment that I will come out and say, ‘I want a trade.’ That’s not … in … my … nature. OK?"
Antetokounmpo, averaging 29.5 points, 10.0 rebounds, and 5.5 assists on 64.5% shooting this season, expressed full investment in turning around the Bucks' fortunes. Despite missing 14 of 37 games due to injury, he remains on pace for another MVP-caliber year. The Bucks, currently 11th in the East at 16-21, have gone 4-2 in their last six games, and Antetokounmpo said, "I am invested in this team. I want to turn this team around... I’m locked in. My priority is just staying healthy."
He plans to stay in Milwaukee long-term, stating, "My plan is to be here for the rest of my career. If they don’t want me..." However, he qualified his commitment as current, noting, "As of today." Bucks coach Doc Rivers praised Antetokounmpo's dedication, saying, "He’s given no indication (that he wants out)... Giannis loves being in Milwaukee. He loves playing for this team."
The rumors, which the Bucks have previously rebuffed from suitors, stem from the team's struggles and past trades like acquiring Jrue Holiday (aiding the 2021 title) and Damian Lillard (which faltered due to injuries). This summer, Milwaukee waived Lillard via a stretch provision and signed Myles Turner. Antetokounmpo views himself as an employee, not in control, adding, "Somebody writes my check. Tomorrow, the person who writes my check might say, ‘I don’t want to write that check no more.’"
While speculation persists about potential destinations like the Knicks or Heat, Antetokounmpo dismissed it, focusing on the next game against the Lakers. His stance shifts pressure to the franchise ahead of the February 5 trade deadline and a possible extension this offseason.