Despite suffering countless injuries and the Milwaukee Bucks being ruled out of the NBA Playoffs, it is clear that Giannis Antetokounmpo wants to return this season. Why? Well, largely, it revolves around a shot at playing with two of his brothers, Thanasis and Alex. ESPN's Shams Charania revealed the latest rumblings surrounding Giannis' interest and a potential return date.
"Antetokounmpo said he wants to play again this season to share the court with his brothers, Thanasis and Alex. Giannis Antetokounmpo is making efforts to play in Friday's home finale against the Nets."
Giannis is determined to join his brothers on the court
Anyone who knows anything about Giannis could have seen this coming from a mile away. Not a day goes by that Giannis doesn't mention how important family is to him. He's played with Thanasis for years, but not Alex, who has been stashed down in the G League. With injuries plaguing the franchise, Alex has made his way to Milwaukee, and it's fueling Giannis' desire to return.
Three brothers on the court at the same time? It would be a historic feat. Alex threw an alley-oop to older brother Thanasis in one of Milwaukee's recent games. Seeing that likely inspired Giannis even further to get back on the floor this season. For someone who used to share shoes with his brothers, the thought of catching lobs or running fast breaks with them has to be enticing.
Friday being the home finale is another quietly important date
The article from Charania makes it clear that Giannis and the Milwaukee Bucks are likely heading for a divorce this summer. It seems inevitable at this point. Even if Giannis says he would like to stay for the rest of his NBA career, the relationship is fractured. Friday night could be his chance to play as a Buck in front of the Fiserv Forum crowd for the last time.
That would mean something to him. No matter how ugly things are right now, Giannis has always said how much Milwaukee means to him. He basically grew up there. He won there. So much of his life has taken place in this city. The chance to say goodbye, in all likelihood, to that crowd while also playing with his brothers could be his idea of the perfect sendoff.
There's no telling if the Milwaukee Bucks will grant Giannis his wish. They claim he isn't healthy. Why would he play if he's not healthy? It's a risk not worth even thinking about, no matter how much the superstar wants to play. If he is miraculously cleared, perhaps they will give him a tight minutes limit and a few plays with his brothers. Friday's starting lineup in Milwaukee will be fascinating to see.
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