Antetokounmpo will wait for a new contract with Milwaukee

Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo said he prioritizes the pursuit of the National Basketball Association championship over financial gain and plans to not sign a contract extension before evaluating the team's direction. The two-time NBA MVP signed a five-year, $228.2 million contract in 2020. Milwaukee can offer him a new three-year, $173 million contract after Sept. 22.

"The real question will not be asked this year. It is not logical," commented Yanis Antetokounmpo in an interview with the New York Times newspaper. "But next summer would make more sense for both sides. Even then, I don't know. I wouldn't be the best version of myself if I wasn't sure that we're all looking in the same direction, we're all aiming for the championship and we're ready to make sacrifices. If I don't feel that, I won't sign," he added.

The Bucks won the title in 2021 and went 51-31 the following season before being eliminated in the Eastern Conference semifinals by the Boston Celtics. Last season, Milwaukee went 58-28 before being eliminated by the Miami Heat in the first round of the playoffs.

"We have to see the dynamics of working with the new coach and how we will act together. I think everyone is aware that I want to win the championship. As long as we all pursue this goal together, I am on the line. This is my team and it will always be mine team. I don't forget the people who helped me and allowed me to get here and show who I am. But we just have to win another title," added Yannis Antetokounmpo.