NEW YORK (AFP) ˗ Giannis Antetokounmpo says he needs to see more proof the Milwaukee Bucks will remain an NBA title contender before he signs a contract extension, according to a report on Friday, Aug. 25.
The 28-year-old Greek center, who led the Bucks to their first title in 50 years in 2021, is eligible to sign an extension next month but told the New York Times he wants a greater commitment from the club to keep a competitive roster before agreeing to such a deal.
“Next summer it would make more sense for both parties. Even then, I don’t know,” Antetokounmpo told the Times.
“I would not be the best version of myself if I don’t know that everybody’s on the same page, everybody’s going for a championship, everybody’s going to sacrifice time away from their family like I do.
“And if I don’t feel that, I’m not signing.”
Bringing back the two-time NBA Most Valuable Player is crucial to the Bucks keeping their status among title contenders.
Milwaukee had the NBA’s best record last season at 58-24 but lost to Miami in the first round of the playoffs. In 2021-22, the Bucks were 51-31 but fell to Boston in the second round of the playoffs.
