Giannis Antetokounmpo: Playing in Europe is Possible Under the Right Conditions

After securing a bronze medal with Greece at EuroBasket 2025, Giannis Antetokounmpo spoke with Sport24 in an interview.

When asked if he could envision himself playing for a European team, the two-time NBA MVP expressed openness to the idea—provided the circumstances and timing were appropriate.

“Absolutely. Last year, following the Olympic Qualifiers, I was watching some highlights with Thanasis, and I said, ‘Bro, Thanasis…’ He gave me a look like I was out of my mind. Like, ‘A player considered among the best in the world would actually play in Europe?’” Giannis remarked.

He believes that others might follow suit if the right chance presented itself.

“Certainly, it could happen. If you suggested to Jokic that he could earn a similar salary and return to Serbia, he’d be on board. For me, I have to consider my body a lot. The financial aspects are quite different, and it’s not just about money—the organizational structure is entirely different too. Having been in the NBA, you understand how things function. But whenever I compete for the national team, I always end up reflecting on the same thoughts.”

Giannis also shared a conversation he had at home.

“I asked my wife, ‘Would you rather stay in Greece or live in Milwaukee?’ She immediately responded, ‘Athens. Athens. Athens is great.’ I replied, ‘Alright, think it over.’ I feel that the game here is much more intense. You take more physical hits, but the bodies delivering those hits aren’t the same caliber. You know what I mean?”

He acknowledged that the European style of play has its own distinctiveness.

“Definitely, it’s crafty. A bit rougher. But you don’t have guys like Duren from Detroit here. You won’t find Adebayo, Steven Adams, Zach Edey, Anthony Davis, or Jaren Jackson. I could go on naming names all night. You take some impacts here as well, but the player physiques in Europe are different. So, in a way, it’s less intense.”

So, is this a possibility?

“Yes. Look at Messi, moving to MLS and Miami. If the right factors and timing align, I wouldn’t mind at all.”

When it was pointed out that he had mentioned “Athens or Milwaukee” rather than specific clubs like Barcelona or Monaco, Giannis smiled and replied:

“You noticed that! You’re sharp…”