In an industry where off-court friendships are quite common, Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo stands as an example of strong rivalry and intense focus. Antetokounmpo recently revealed his strict policy of only teaming up with hall-of-famers of the game as training partners during the offseason on the 48 Minutes podcast.
“I don’t know how to be phony,” Antetokounmpo said. “I don’t know how to be fake. That’s why I kind of keep my distance, because I know that if I work out with people, it takes active players, it takes off my edge when I play against them.”
Giannis Antetokounmpo says he refuses to work out with other NBA players in the offseason
“I don’t know how to be phony. I don’t know how to be fake. That’s why I kind of keep my distance, because I know that if I work out with people, it takes active players, it takes off my… pic.twitter.com/J4EGtuOiHt
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) September 13, 2023
Due to his intense commitment to keeping a competitive edge, he limits the number of people in his training group and stays away from active players to avoid confusing friendship with competition.
His upcoming plan include training in Houston with the legendary Hakeem Olajuwon, who will be added to his exclusive group of mentors that also includes legends like Kevin Garnett and Kobe Bryant. His unwavering commitment to excellence is highlighted by the fact that he only choose first-ballot Hall of Famers to train with.
The Milwaukee Bucks’ prospects and Giannis Antetokounmpo’s future
Despite their top-seeded finish in the Eastern Conference last season, the Bucks faced an untimely exit in the opening round, falling to the Miami Heat. However, two-time MVP had an impressive average of 31.1 points, 11.8 rebounds, and 5.7 assists over 63 games in the 2022-23 season.
In a league where the creation of superteams has become a norm, Antetokounmpo has always adhered to his loyality to the Bucks, resisting opportunities to collaborate with other notable players. Even after a disappointing second round playoff defeat in 2020 season, he chose to stay with the team, a decision rewarded with an NBA championship the following season. However, the ticking clock seems to be putting pressure on the Bucks’ championship aspirations.
With key players like Brook Lopez, Khris Middleton, and Jrue Holiday advancing in age, the Greek sensation has hinted at considering his options carefully before committing to a contract extension. Antetokounmpo has highlighted that his future with the Bucks is dependent on their ability to continue competing for a title.
As of now, he has three years left on his contract, with an option to become a free agent in the summer of 2025. As the new season approaches, all eyes will be on Antetokounmpo and the Bucks, as they seek to reclaim the championship title.