Giannis Antetokounmpo Reveals Why He Ditched His Old Jersey Number
Antetokounmpo said he changed numbers to close his Bucks chapter and start fresh in Miami, where the Heat paid a heavy trade price.
- After 13 seasons with the Milwaukee Bucks, Giannis Antetokounmpo joined the Miami Heat in July, switching to No. 7. The two-time NBA Most Valuable Player said he 'had to get closure' after his lengthy tenure in Milwaukee.
- Seeking a new challenge after years in his 'comfort zone,' Antetokounmpo told The Associated Press that Miami is 'the organization that will bring the best out of me.' He prioritizes competing every game and winning a championship.
- New Heat guard Klay Thompson, a four-time champion from Golden State, expressed excitement about building chemistry with Antetokounmpo. Thompson said having such a hardworking star is 'contagious' for the team.
- Heat coach Erik Spoelstra praised the addition, stating 'His competitive spirit is aligned with ours.' Miami traded Tyler Herro, Kel'el Ware, Jaime Jaquez Jr., Kasparas Jakucionis, three first-round picks, a pick swap and a second-round pick.
- Antetokounmpo could sign a max extension worth $275 million over four seasons in the coming months. He left the door open for returning to No. 34 next year, saying 'Maybe next year I might put 34 on.
20 Articles
20 Articles
Giannis Antetokounmpo reveals why he ditched his old jersey number
Giannis Antetokounmpo is wearing a new jersey number after his stunning trade from the Milwaukee Bucks to the Miami Heat in July. Antetokounmpo wore No. 34 throughout his time with the Bucks, but he’s already switched to No. 7, apparently because he simply wanted to move on. “Had to get closure. It was a huge …
Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Miami Heat could be a perfect title-chas
Miami Heat forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (7) has a moment of silence before the first half of an NBA preseason basketball game against the New Orleans PelicansThursday, Oct. 8, 2026, in Miami. (AP Photo/Marta Lavandier)
Giannis Antetokounmpo Finally Reveals the Story Behind His Surprising Jersey Number Change
Giannis Antetokounmpo has officially entered a new chapter of his NBA career, and the two-time MVP is making sure his fresh start with the Miami Heat comes with a completely different look. After spending 13 seasons wearing No. 34 with the Milwaukee Bucks, the Greek Freak has traded in his familiar digits for No. 7. …
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