Giannis Antetokounmpo: 3 takeaways from MVP’s supermax extension

No. 2 – Antetokounmpo is confident in Milwaukee’s ability to contend

Time and time again, the Greek Freak had made it clear that he wants to win a championship above all else and that he wants to do it with the Bucks.

However, the recurring question was whether the team had surrounded him with a proper supporting cast to achieve that goal. As ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski remarked on his podcast, ‘The Woj Pod,’ Antetokounmpo wasn’t interested in chasing big markets, especially those far off from winning. Transcribed by Real GM:

"“The challenge for the Bucks is just selling him on winning,” said Wojnarowski. “I know this about Giannis: his decision is not about wanting to be in a big market and have all the trimmings that come with Los Angeles or New York or wherever it is. I don’t think that’s part of his decision making. I think at his core he’s immensely loyal. I believe he loves the people in Milwaukee. Loves that community. He loves the organization. But he wants to win and that’s what he’s weighing.”"

Understanding that they needed to shake up the roster, Milwaukee spared no expense in doing so this offseason. While the Bucks throughout in a slew of veterans such as Torrey Craig, D.J. Augustin, and Bobby Portis this offseason, the biggest move was adding Jrue Holiday, without question.

Milwaukee gave up a hefty haul to bring in the guard that included Eric Bledsoe, George Hill, three future first round picks, and the right to two future pick swaps. Many questioned whether their active offseason was enough to convince Antetokounmpo to commit long term, especially after their failed bid for Bogdan Bogdanovic, who is a friend of his.

With a signature from Antetokounmpo, it is now evident that he believes this team is in a prime position to contend. Time will tell how the new additions gel with the returning players, but the Bucks are undoubtedly in the mix of title contenders.