Giannis Antetokounmpo: I Can't Wait to Put on a Show for 20,000 Fans

After transitioning from individual workouts to full team practices, 31-year-old Giannis Antetokounmpo is embarking on a new season in an entirely different environment.

Greek superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo is poised to lead the Miami Heat to a championship title following a blockbuster summer trade. The 31-year-old forward dedicated his first 13 years in the league to the Milwaukee Bucks, with whom he won the title in 2021. Now, a new era begins for him in South Florida.

The Athens-born basketball player is already spending hours in his new arena. “It feels good. It’s always nice to get some extra reps on the main court. I’ve played on this court as a member of another team. It’s exciting to be part of the Miami Heat. I can’t wait for 20,000 fans to support us and for us to put on a show for them,” he stated after a practice session.

While touring the facilities on Sunday, he also ran into two-time NBA champion Norris Cole, who was recently appointed to the Sioux Falls Skyforce staff, and greeted him with a hug.

Following Monday's media day, head coach Erik Spoelstra will gather his team to officially open training camp. Miami kicks off its preseason schedule with a game against the Toronto Raptors in Quebec City on October 3. The team's debut at Kaseya Center will be on October 21 in the first game of the 2026/27 regular season against the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Beyond the upcoming schedule, significant financial decisions will shape the franchise's future. Giannis holds a player option worth $62.78 million in his contract for the 2027/28 season. This summer, he could opt out of the final year to become an unrestricted free agent, or activate the option to secure his salary. However, a third possibility opens up in January 2027, when he will be eligible to sign a four-year contract extension worth $275 million.