Giannis Antetokounmpo Invests in Prediction Market Kalshi, Sparking Trade Speculation

NBA star's involvement with unregulated platform raises concerns about potential conflicts of interest and insider trading

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo has become the first active NBA player to invest in the prediction market platform Kalshi, just one day after the NBA trade deadline. This move has sparked intense speculation about Antetokounmpo's future intentions and the potential for improper trading activity, given the extensive rumors surrounding his potential departure from the Bucks in recent weeks.

Why it matters

Antetokounmpo's investment in Kalshi, an unregulated prediction market, raises concerns about the potential for insider trading and conflicts of interest, especially given the NBA's heightened scrutiny of gambling-related activities. The timing of the announcement, shortly after the trade deadline, has further fueled suspicions about Antetokounmpo's motives and trustworthiness.

The details

Giannis Antetokounmpo confirmed his shareholder status in Kalshi just one day after the NBA trade deadline, during which he remained with the Milwaukee Bucks. Kalshi had previously hosted markets predicting whether Antetokounmpo would be traded and identifying possible destinations, which drew unusual attention given his new investment in the company. Kalshi has stated that Antetokounmpo is barred from trading on NBA-related markets, with his role mainly involving marketing efforts and appearances at live events rather than active participation in wagers.

  • Giannis Antetokounmpo announced his investment in Kalshi on February 7, 2026, one day after the NBA trade deadline.
  • In the weeks leading up to the trade deadline, there were extensive rumors about Antetokounmpo's potential departure from the Milwaukee Bucks.

The players

Giannis Antetokounmpo

A superstar player for the Milwaukee Bucks in the NBA, who has now become the first active NBA player to invest in the prediction market platform Kalshi.

Kalshi

A prediction market platform that hosted markets predicting whether Giannis Antetokounmpo would be traded, and where he might end up, prior to his investment in the company.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Giannis made up a rumor that he would leave the Bucks, causing people to bet a total of $23M as to whether/where he would go on Kalshi, an unregulated gambling/insider trading platform.”

— RedditCFB (Twitter)

What’s next

The NBA is likely to closely monitor Giannis Antetokounmpo's involvement with Kalshi and investigate any potential conflicts of interest or improper trading activity, given the league's heightened focus on gambling-related issues.

The takeaway

Giannis Antetokounmpo's investment in the unregulated prediction market platform Kalshi has raised serious concerns about the potential for insider trading and conflicts of interest, especially given the extensive trade rumors surrounding the NBA superstar in the weeks leading up to the deadline. This situation highlights the need for greater oversight and regulation of emerging prediction markets tied to professional sports contracts.