Giannis Antetokounmpo Committed to Bucks, Dampening Warriors and Lakers' Hopes

The two-time MVP says he's fully committed to Milwaukee, dealing a blow to potential suitors.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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In a recent interview, Giannis Antetokounmpo stated that he is committed to the Milwaukee Bucks, dampening the hopes of the Golden State Warriors and Los Angeles Lakers who were rumored to be interested in acquiring the superstar. Antetokounmpo's comments suggest he plans to remain with the Bucks, potentially dashing the championship aspirations of the Warriors and Lakers who were hoping to land the two-time MVP.

Why it matters

Antetokounmpo's commitment to the Bucks is a significant setback for the Warriors and Lakers, who were seen as potential landing spots for the superstar. The Warriors in particular would have greatly benefited from adding Antetokounmpo to their roster alongside Stephen Curry and Kristaps Porzingis. The Lakers were also eyeing Antetokounmpo as a way to pair him with Luka Doncic and create a formidable duo in the Western Conference.

The details

In an interview with ESPN's Malika Andrews, Antetokounmpo stated: "As of today, I'm committed to the Milwaukee Bucks. I'm committed to the people that I work with, my teammates, the coaching staff, Coach Doc (Rivers), and (GM) Jon (Horst) in the front office." He also said: "What I've said from the beginning of this year is that, out of my mouth and the way I've carried myself, you will never hear me say I don't want to be a Milwaukee Buck."

  • Antetokounmpo made these comments on Sunday, February 15, 2026.

The players

Giannis Antetokounmpo

A two-time NBA MVP who has spent his entire career with the Milwaukee Bucks since being drafted 15th overall in 2013.

Stephen Curry

A three-time NBA champion and two-time MVP who plays for the Golden State Warriors.

Kristaps Porzingis

A star player for the Golden State Warriors who was acquired in a trade.

Luka Doncic

A young superstar player for the Los Angeles Lakers.

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What they’re saying

“As of today, I'm committed to the Milwaukee Bucks. I'm committed to the people that I work with, my teammates, the coaching staff, Coach Doc (Rivers), and (GM) Jon (Horst) in the front office.”

— Giannis Antetokounmpo (ESPN)

“What I've said from the beginning of this year is that, out of my mouth and the way I've carried myself, you will never hear me say I don't want to be a Milwaukee Buck.”

— Giannis Antetokounmpo (ESPN)

What’s next

The Warriors and Lakers will likely have to explore other avenues to improve their rosters, as Antetokounmpo's commitment to the Bucks makes it unlikely he will be available in free agency or via trade.

The takeaway

Giannis Antetokounmpo's unequivocal commitment to the Milwaukee Bucks is a major setback for the Warriors and Lakers, who were hoping to land the superstar to bolster their championship aspirations. This development underscores the challenges faced by even the NBA's elite franchises in acquiring top-tier talent, as players like Antetokounmpo have become increasingly loyal to the teams that drafted them.