By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
Giannis Antetokounmpo is excited to start the 2025-26 NBA Regular Season, especially with the Milwaukee Bucks hosting his longtime teammate Khris Middleton at the top of an 82-game schedule on Wednesday.
“First of all, the most important thing, he should get the warmest welcome ever,” said the Greek Freak in a media session following the annual open practice of the Bucks in Fiserv Forum on Sunday, replying to a question about 34-year-old Middleton, his sidekick over the last 12 years, including the championship run of the 2020-21 season, “When he comes here and he sees his tribute video, he should be in tears crying before the game.”
“I cannot explain how much Khris means to this team. I cannot explain how much Khris means to me,” added the 30-year-old point forward, “I’ve had the opportunity to play against him once in the USA team and once last year. It’s fun. That’s my guy. That’s my brother for life. We’ve done incredible things together. So, I cannot wait to see him tear up on Wednesday.”
Focusing on the overall picture of his 13th journey with the Bucks, Giannis explained how the team coached by Doc Rivers can make some noise from the Regular Season to the Playoffs.
“We’re not the favorites, but we’re going to be a problem. We’re going to be dangerous. The team is set up in a way that is very, very dangerous,” he said, “We have a lot of shooting. We have a lot of playmakers and ball-handlers. We have a lot of defenders. We can switch. We have an incredible big that can space the floor and be a problem defensively.”
“We are set up exactly how you need to set up to make a statement,” he stressed, “Now, our goal is Wednesday. After that, stay healthy, and after that, get to the Playoffs. Be in the Playoffs and try to win a Playoffs series.”