Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo addressed the media on Thursday and spoke candidly about his recent calf injury and ongoing trade speculation.
“I’m feeling good. I’ve been working. I’ve been running. I just can’t wait … to get back out there and play basketball,” he said of his expected four-week recovery from a right soleus injury suffered Dec. 3.
Reflecting on the injury, Antetokounmpo explained, “I feel like after the groin injury, I was in the mindset that I came back too quickly… instead of taking the right time, I rushed things, and that’s what I’ve done my entire career.” He emphasized the need to carefully manage his body as he moves forward, noting, “I just have to be smart… I can’t cheat the timeline anymore.”
The two-time MVP also addressed reports linking him to potential trades. “Personally, I haven’t had the conversation with the Bucks. I’m still locked in … on my teammates and how can I help them or encourage them from the sidelines,” he said. On rumors about his agent’s talks with other teams, he added, “My agent works for me…there will be conversations…that we have no control over. Ultimately, I’m focused on basketball.”
Antetokounmpo acknowledged the toll media speculation can take, but insisted it will not affect his work or relationships within the team. “It doesn’t affect my relationship with my teammates… with my coach… with the GM. It doesn’t really bother me because they know what I’m talking about,” he said.
Despite the Bucks’ struggles this season, Giannis expressed confidence in his teammates’ character and determination. “There’s nothing that frustrates me about this team…we have guys with high character. The only part that can be frustrating is when we lose. I don’t like losing,” he said. He emphasized the importance of team unity and urged players to support each other through setbacks: “If someone falls on the ground, go pick them up. If someone misses a shot, cheer them on… all those little things add up.”
Antetokounmpo also discussed his leadership role while sidelined. ‘Having conversations with Myles [Turner]with Bobby [Portis], [Kyle Kuzma] encouraging them… showing up, being there, feeling my presence when I’m in the locker room at practice or at the game, he said. He emphasized that basketball preparation and team focus remain his top priorities.
While the trade talk continues, Milwaukee’s position has not wavered. Sources confirm the Bucks have no plans to move Antetokounmpo and continue to build around him, with offseason moves including the acquisition of Myles Turner and waiving Damian Lillard indicating a long-term commitment.
Giannis remains focused on rebounding and helping Milwaukee climb out of its current 11-16 record. “I just want to play basketball,” he said. “Rumors won’t help us win the game… we just have to focus on basketball.”
#Giannis #Antetokounmpo #Addresses #Trade #Rumors #TalkBasket.net