Milwaukee Bucks fans had been waiting for this day to happen: Giannis Antetokounmpo signs another extension to stay in the 414. It was announced on Monday evening that the two-time MVP was signing a three-year, $186M contract extension, just hours before his deadline to come to an agreement.
Many people, particularly members of the media tried to think of other scenarios in which Antetokounmpo would up and leave Milwaukee, but the past couple weeks have almost been hinting at the superstar staying in the city for years to come.
But many were also surprised that he signed the extension at this time. While he was extension eligible, he could’ve waited until the offseason to receive a little bigger contract with more years, but Giannis even took a little bit of a pay-cut when signing this extension.
What this means for the Bucks Franchise
This extension keeps Giannis in Milwaukee until 2027-2028 where he’ll have a player option. Originally, his player option was for the 2025-2026 season, but with signing this new deal, he’s here for *technically* four more years.
This works greatly in favor of those who believe that the Bucks can win another championship. Especially after acquiring Damian Lillard, who the Bucks also have control of until the 2025-2026 season with a player option for the 2026-2027 season.
When Giannis made the announcement himself on Twitter, he posted a picture of him holding the 2021 NBA championship trophy the Bucks brought home. Is this his way of sending out the message that he’s going to lead the Bucks to another championship title
MILWAUKEEEEEEEEE!! Let’s get it!!!! #BucksInSix #Extended pic.twitter.com/2wP0AVqG3Y
— Giannis Antetokounmpo (@Giannis_An34) October 23, 2023
Now, it could be a coincidence, BUT, back in 2021 when Giannis resigned his monster contract, and Milwaukee traded for Jrue Holiday, they coincidentally won the championship. Now in 2023, they traded Holiday for Lillard and Giannis just signed an extension, is that the message we need?
Many fans across the NBA who aren’t Bucks supporters were pretty bummed when they saw the news of Giannis’ extension. No Giannis to the Knicks, no Giannis to Toronto, none of that nonsense. Giannis is here to stay.
The Bucks now have Antetokounmpo, Lillard, Brook Lopez, Khris Middleton, and Bobby Portis locked up for a couple of years. If that doesn’t spell out championship, I don’t know what does. This team, even prior to the regular season, has shown and said that they’re all in, that they all want to win another championship.
I think we need to give GM Jon Horst some kudos here. Not only did he make arguably the trade of the offseason, but he made sure he kept the best player in the NBA on his team. He’s made sure that this Bucks franchise continues it’s legacy and greatness for years to come.
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