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Giannis Antetokounmpo Explains Why He Changed His Number
Antetokounmpo said No. 7 reflects closure and a fresh start after 13 seasons with Milwaukee, where he won two MVP awards and a title.
Two-Time NBA Most Valuable Player Giannis Antetokounmpo held his introductory press conference at the Kaseya Center in Miami on Thursday, July 16, debuting his new No. 7 jersey after 13 years with the Milwaukee Bucks.
Antetokounmpo explained he abandoned No. 34 'out of respect for the organization that drafted me,' opting for 7 because it represents the sum of the final digits of his parents' birth years.
Leaving behind a number synonymous with his legacy in Milwaukee, Antetokounmpo told reporters, 'It's almost kind of having closure, mentally and emotionally,' after winning a championship and two MVPs.
Teaming up with captain Bam Adebayo and head coach Erik Spoelstra, he aims to lead the Heat to a championship, stating, 'I feel like this is the best route for me to do that.'
Heat president Pat Riley hinted at the team's pursuit of the 41 year old icon LeBron James, who is an unrestricted free agent, noting such a move would 'happen organically' for the veteran.