Giannis Antetokounmpo, the face of the Milwaukee Bucks for over a decade, may finally be considering a fresh start—and the Houston Rockets and San Antonio Spurs are quietly emerging as serious contenders if he decides to move.
After yet another disappointing first-round playoff exit—this time at the hands of the Indiana Pacers—Giannis is reportedly open to exploring other teams for the first time in his NBA career. While nothing is set in stone, and the Bucks remain hopeful they can retain their two-time MVP, sources across the league say a shift is underway.
Why Now?
The Bucks have underperformed in the playoffs for three straight seasons, despite Giannis continuing to put up MVP-caliber numbers. He averaged 30.4 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 6.5 assists this year while shooting an impressive 60% from the field. Even in the postseason, Giannis was dominant—averaging 33 points and 15.4 rebounds—but it wasn’t enough.
At 30 years old, the Greek Freak knows his prime won’t last forever. He’s voiced a deep desire to win another championship, and with Milwaukee’s title window closing and their roster flexibility shrinking, Giannis might decide it’s time to chase that second ring elsewhere.
Enter the Rockets and Spurs
According to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst, Giannis is as sharp off the court as he is on it—especially when it comes to financial decisions. With no state income tax in Texas, the Rockets and Spurs instantly become appealing options. Plus, both franchises are loaded with young talent, assets, and cap space.
- Houston Rockets: They’re a team on the rise, brimming with potential. With Jalen Green, Alperen Şengün, and Jabari Smith Jr., they have the kind of young core that could complement Giannis perfectly. They also hold valuable draft capital and cap flexibility to make a deal work.
- San Antonio Spurs: Imagine Giannis teaming up with generational big man Victor Wembanyama. The Spurs could create one of the most intimidating frontcourts in NBA history while being guided by one of the greatest coaches of all time—Gregg Popovich. San Antonio has long been a respected, stable franchise, which could appeal to Giannis as he thinks long-term.
Milwaukee’s Dilemma
The Bucks, meanwhile, are stuck in a financial tightrope. With Damian Lillard’s injury and age becoming concerns, and limited trade assets after going all-in the past few seasons, they’re facing a tough rebuild if Giannis walks. The franchise has already spent over $220 million in tax penalties since 2020 and is in danger of entering a prolonged mediocrity phase.
What’s Next?
Giannis is still under contract through 2027 with a $62.7 million player option for the 2027-28 season. But in today’s NBA, contracts don’t always guarantee loyalty. The draft combine in Chicago this week will be filled with behind-the-scenes conversations as teams begin to position themselves in case the Bucks open the door to a trade.
As of now, Milwaukee and Giannis’ camp are expected to sit down during the offseason to discuss his future. For the first time in 12 years, the answer may not be so simple.
One thing is clear: if Giannis decides to move on, the NBA landscape is about to shift dramatically—and the state of Texas could be right at the center of it.
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