Just because a player and team have a messy divorce doesn't mean they'll never get together again once the dust has settled. LeBron James is living proof of that, and there is a chance that one day in the distant future, Giannis Antetokounmpo could do the same with the Milwaukee Bucks. Appearing on AnesΤea The Podcast, Giannis wasn't shy about his thoughts on Milwaukee.
"I hope when the Miami chapter closes, and I don't know when or if it will, but it will because I'll retire at some point, and I don't know how many years I'll spend there, but I wish to return to Milwaukee if they'll have me."
LeBron's first exit from Cleveland was nasty
When LeBron left the Cavaliers, ironically for the Heat, in 2010, it was an ugly situation. James' choice to announce the decision on national television was met with widespread criticism, including from majority owner Dan Gilbert, who called it a "cowardly betrayal." Fans were devastated and upset, burning and destroying gear of the hometown superstar.
Despite all of this, James returned to Cleveland four years later. All was immediately forgiven. What had happened in the past was no longer relevant. Fans, the front office, and other Cleveland figures all welcomed him back with open arms. Two years after that, LeBron led them to their only title in franchise history.
The same type of reception could absolutely be waiting for Giannis Antetokounmpo one day.
Giannis would likely be welcomed back in Milwaukee
Unlike LeBron the first time leaving Cleveland, Giannis has already won a championship with the team that drafted him. He cemented himself as a Milwaukee legend forever with that dynamic performance in the 2021 NBA Playoffs. Fans have love for him that they didn't have for James leading up to his first departure from the Cavaliers.
However, there is no denying that things have certainly grown sour over the last year or so.
From Giannis flirting with requesting a trade last summer, being halfway in and out this season when discussing his future in Milwaukee, and Myles Turner revealing that the forward was one of the main culprits when it came to being late to team events this past season, it was clear that something was going on. This wasn't what fans were used to from Giannis.
With all of the other dysfunction going on amid the team's worst season in a decade, fans were rightfully displeased with Giannis and everything else going on. It got to a point where Bucks fans were fine with Giannis leaving as long as he actually came out and said it rather than flip-flopping constantly when asked about his loyalty. Finally, he did.
There is no telling what will happen over the next several years. Bucks fans would likely embrace a second go-round with Giannis, especially if they have a legitimate chance to snag a championship once again. A large part of the fanbase still has admiration for him, and it is certainly mutual.
Stay tuned for more Milwaukee Bucks analysis.
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