Bucks new coach Adrian Griffin excited to work with Giannis Antetokounmpo

The 1st-time head coach anticipates having a ‘great partnership’ with the Milwaukee star forward in 2023-24

SAUKVILLE, Iowa (AP) – Although Giannis Antetokounmpo, the two-time league MVP, intends to postpone signing a contract extension with the organization, new Milwaukee coach Adrian Griffin says he is looking forward to building a strong connection with the player.

Before deciding whether to sign a long-term contract to remain in Milwaukee, Antetokounmpo told The New York Times last month that he wants to see how devoted the Bucks are to achieving another title. The two-time MVP mentioned the recent coaching change at the Bucks and stated that before making a choice, he wanted to “see the dynamics” of how everything works with the new team.

Griffin stated, “Giannis and I are on the same page,” on Monday during a golf outing that benefited the Milwaukee Bucks Foundation. “So far, our relationship is fantastic. It’s been a pleasure getting to know him. Both he and I are interested in winning. It really is that easy. I honor him. I admire his accomplishments in this league. Together, we aim to triumph here. That is not problematic for me. It seems like a wonderful collaboration. Together, we will be the team’s leader. The others will follow his lead. I believe it’s fantastic.

The deal for Antetokounmpo expires in 2024–2025; there is a player option for 2025–2026.
Griffin said that despite undergoing knee surgery in the offseason, Antetokounmpo and forward Khris Middleton should be prepared for the start of training camp on October 3.

“That is the strategy,” Griffin stated. “They’ve been grinding it out in the gym every day, working their asses off. The most crucial thing, in my opinion, is to simply go day by day. They are acting in that manner. It’s been excellent.

The Bucks, under Antetokounmpo, won their first NBA championship in 50 years in 2021, but they haven’t gone past the second round of the playoffs since. The Miami Heat defeated the Bucks 4-1 in the opening round of the playoffs, despite having the best regular-season record in the NBA.

Following that heartbreaking playoff defeat, the Bucks fired Mike Budenholzer and brought in Griffin, who had served as assistant coach for the Toronto Raptors for the previous five seasons. Griffin stated on Monday that he and Antetokounmpo have similar objectives and that he is aware of the expectations that come with the position.

Griffin declared, “We’re in sync.” “We want to succeed here. The one topic I brought up with my staff and team was just accepting expectations. Our roster is incredibly strong. Rather than escaping it, we wish to accept it.

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