(Milwaukee) Giannis Antetokounmpo has indicated that he is waiting to see how determined the Milwaukee Bucks are to fight for another championship before deciding whether or not to sign a contract extension.
The one who has twice been named the most valuable player to his team can begin negotiations for an extension next month. His current pact is due to end at the end of the 2024-2025 campaign, with an option of an additional season which Antetokounmpo could take advantage of.
The 28-year-old Greek, however, explained to the New York Times daily that he was not going to accept a new agreement this year. He could do it next summer, although it is not yet decided.
“I wouldn’t be at my best if I wasn’t sure that everyone is on the same page, everyone wants a championship, everyone is willing to sacrifice time with their family. As I do. If I don’t feel all that, I won’t sign,” Antetokounmpo said.
Antetokounmpo led the Bucks to a first title in 50 years in 2021, seven months after agreeing to a maximum extension. However, the team has not gone beyond the second round since.
The Bucks had the best regular season record in the NBA in 2022-23, but lost in five games to the Miami Heat in the first round of the playoffs. They then fired head coach Mike Budenholzer before replacing him with former Toronto Raptors assistant coach Adrian Griffin.
Antetokounmpo said he wanted to see how the “dynamic” was going to set up with the new coaching staff before making his decision. He also launched that he hopes to play his entire career with one team.
“But ultimately, being a winner outweighs that wish,” he said. Winning a championship comes first. I don’t want to be 20 years with the same team without winning a championship. »
