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, initiating a fresh chapter. The two-time NBA Most Valuable Player said he "had to get closure" after his long tenure in Milwaukee.
- Antetokounmpo explained he wanted a new challenge after feeling stuck in his "comfort zone" for many years. He believes Miami is the organization that will "bring the best out of me" at this stage of his career.
- New Heat guard Klay Thompson, a four-time champion from Golden State, expressed excitement about building chemistry with Antetokounmpo. He noted that having a hardworking star is "contagious" and brings joy to the team.
- Heat coach Erik Spoelstra praised the addition, stating his "competitive spirit is aligned with ours." To acquire Antetokounmpo and Bobby Portis, Miami traded Tyler Herro, Kelel Ware, Jaime Jaquez, Kasparas Jakucionis, and draft picks.
- Antetokounmpo could sign a max extension worth $275 million in the coming months, positioning Miami as a destination for championship contention. He left the door open for returning to his former number 34 next year.
19 Articles
19 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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