Giannis: I thought I'd spend my entire career in Milwaukee

Miami Heat forward Giannis Antetokounmpo has opened up about his emotions following his trade from the Milwaukee Bucks. In the summer of 2026, Antetokounmpo was moved from the Bucks to Miami. The Heat also acquired Bobby Portis in the deal. In return, Milwaukee received guards Tyler Herro, Kasparas Jakučionis, Jaime Jaquez, center Kelel Ware, three first-round picks, one second-round pick, and a pick swap.

“I thought I would spend my entire career in Milwaukee. But then I realized I was in my comfort zone. I wanted something different. And I’m glad to be in Miami. I won’t lie, I don’t feel comfortable in Miami right now,” Antetokounmpo was quoted by HoopsHype.

“I don’t know the team, but I’m going there and I’m going to give it my all. I’ve been doing that my whole life, and I hope it works out. I love the city of Milwaukee. I will love Milwaukee until the day I die. I’m wrapped in purple and green. It’s that simple. That’s where I became who I am today,” he added.

The 31-year-old Greek superstar also admitted he hopes to return to Milwaukee one day. “As far as basketball goes, I had a wonderful time there. It will always be in my heart. It will never go away. I don’t know, but I hope that when this chapter with Miami ends, I don’t know when or if that will happen, and I don’t know how many years I will spend there, I would like to return to Milwaukee, if they are willing,” Giannis stated.