Giannis Decision Timeline Updated By Bucks' Jimmy Haslam Amid NBA Trade Rumors Ahead of 2026 Draft

The Milwaukee Bucks plan to make a decision regarding star Giannis Antetokounmpo's future with the organization before the 2026 NBA draft, according to Bucks co-governor Jimmy Haslam.

"I just think before the draft is a natural time, right? Because if Giannis does play somewhere else, then we ought to get a lot of assets and it's Jon's job to do it," Haslam told reporters Wednesday. "If he's here, then you build the team differently."

"I just want to stress that our relationship with him, despite what is reported by certain ESPN writers, is very positive," he added.

Bucks co-governor Wes Edens previously told ESPN's Ramona Shelburne that Antetokounmpo, who is entering the final year of his contract, would either be extended or traded during the 2026 offseason.

Milwaukee is coming off a 32-50 finish, failing to make the playoffs for the first time since 2016.

Antetokounmpo appeared in a career-low 36 games during the regular season, missing time due to calf and knee issues.

In Dec. 2025, ESPN's Shams Charania reported that the two-time MVP and his agent had "started conversations" with the Bucks about "whether his best fit is staying or elsewhere."

Milwaukee continued to field trade offers for Antetokounmpo before the Feb. 5 deadline until the team ultimately retained him, per Charania.

The 31-year-old discussed signing a potential extension after the regular season came to a close.

"We'll see when we get there," Antetokounmpo said, per ESPN's Tim Bontemps. "We have [several] months [until then] ... it's a long time. But somebody has to offer you that, for you to sign. I haven't been offered an extension. So, if that is on the table, then I will try to make the best decision for me and my family."

Despite his injury woes and the Bucks' disappointing record, he remained impactful when available.

Antetokounmpo averaged 27.6 points, 9.8 rebounds and 5.4 assists per game while shooting 62.4 percent on field goals during his 2025-26 campaign.

The 2026 NBA draft will begin on June 23.