PHILADELPHIA, Apr. 12, 2026 — Giannis Antetokounmpo left his 13th NBA season with more questions than answers, telling reporters he is unsure whether he has played his last game for the Milwaukee Bucks after a 126-106 loss to the Philadelphia 76ers ended the team’s year.
“I don’t know. It’s not up to me. We’ll see,” the two-time MVP said when asked if Friday night marked his final appearance in a Bucks uniform.
Frustration Over Communication and Playing Status
During a 10-minute news conference that followed head coach Doc Rivers’ media session — Rivers is departing the organization — Antetokounmpo repeatedly voiced irritation with the way the franchise handled this season. He said Milwaukee is “the furthest away” from contention it has been at any point in his career and criticized what he described as poor communication from the front office.
Antetokounmpo, 31, also expressed displeasure at being held out of recent games despite, in his view, being healthy after a left knee hyperextension and bone bruise suffered last month. “I thought I had control, like, ‘OK, if I’m healthy, I’m going to play,’” he said. “This shows me players don’t have control. We have to do what we’re told.”
Extension Still Possible
The Bucks can offer Antetokounmpo an extension in October. Team owner Wes Edens told ESPN last month the club will either extend or trade the star before he can reach unrestricted free agency next summer. Asked Friday if he would sign a new deal if it is offered, Antetokounmpo replied, “We’ll see when we get there. Somebody has to offer you that for you to sign. I haven’t been offered an extension.”
Broader Offseason Questions
Milwaukee’s defeat completed a 32-50 campaign that snapped a nine-year playoff streak and set up a pivotal offseason. The Bucks must find a new head coach and decide whether to build around Antetokounmpo or explore trade scenarios. “If everything goes well, hopefully the Bucks want me here — why not? But if they don’t? OK,” he said.
For now, Antetokounmpo plans to rest and prepare for next season, wherever that may be. “Do not disturb on my phone, go about my day, improve, and come back better,” he said.
Source: ESPN
