Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
Giannis Antetokounmpo trade rumors have gained fresh attention after a newly surfaced YouTube interview showed the Milwaukee Bucks star speaking warmly about his future in the city.
The comments came during a "School of Hard Knocks" feature, where Antetokounmpo discussed his rise from childhood poverty, his financial discipline and his long-term wealth plans.
For more NBA coverage, read Victor Wembanyama NBA Finals Spotlight Turns Spurs vs Knicks Into Global Showpiece.
Giannis Comment Draws Attention
When asked about a new Greek restaurant opening in Milwaukee, Antetokounmpo gave an answer that quickly spread online.
“They reached out and said they want to open a restaurant here in Milwaukee. I was like ‘oh, lovely!’ After the games I’ll be able to come eat here….. 2013, I got drafted, I came here to MIL, I’ve been here 13 years with the team and hopefully many more.”
That final phrase stood out because Antetokounmpo remains at the centre of the NBA offseason trade debate.
According to the source report, NBA on NBC’s Grant Liffmann said Antetokounmpo has identified the Miami Heat as his preferred trade destination.
Bucks Face Uncertain Offseason
The Milwaukee Bucks are coming off a difficult season, with the report stating they won 32 games and missed the playoffs for the first time in a decade.
Antetokounmpo was limited to 36 games by injury, while Doc Rivers resigned and the team’s core changed following the departures of Damian Lillard, Brook Lopez and Khris Middleton.
The Miami Heat reportedly held preliminary trade talks before the February deadline, with a possible offseason offer including Tyler Herro, Kel'el Ware, the 13th pick in the 2026 NBA Draft and future first-round picks.
Per NBA insider Frank Madden, Milwaukee ownership would likely prefer to keep Herro if a Miami deal happens rather than move him to another team.
The Portland Trail Blazers are also listed as a leading candidate, while the Cleveland Cavaliers are no longer an option after rejecting a package built around Evan Mobley.
Official league updates are available through the NBA website.