Giannis Antetokounmpo has a decision to make with the Milwaukee Bucks and Dwight Howard knows what he should do.
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s future in Milwaukee has generated a lot of chatter all season long, and the Bucks eventual five-game collapse in this year’s postseason against the Indiana Pacers has made it a matter of urgency.
The Bucks have insufficient flexibility to strengthen in the wake of Damian Lillard’s injury, and are not expected to be a contender in 2025-26. Amid a clearly stated desire from Giannis Antetokounmpo to win another title, the obvious choice is to move on.
Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty ImagesDwight Howard warns Giannis Antetokounmpo about leaving Milwaukee
ESPN’s Shams Charania has reported the Bucks sensation has expressed openness to explore a potential fit with other teams.
While the Greek star has consistently insisted his loyalty resides in Milwaukee, this new development is the very first time that Antetokounmpo showed interest outside the Bucks.
Former NBA superstar Dwight Howard has offered his thoughts about the superstar’s dilemma.
Referencing his own past situation, he wrote on X: “Don’t leave Giannis coming from someone who been there.”
Don’t leave Giannis coming from someone who been there
— Dwight Howard (@DwightHoward) May 12, 2025
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Dwight Howard regretted leaving Orlando
By acknowledging his run with the Orlando Magic, it was indeed an intriguing reminder coming from Dwight Howard.
After being drafted by the franchise as their top overall pick in 2004, Howard embraced being the centerpiece of the Magic. He went on to lead Orlando to contention, defeating the Cavaliers in the Eastern Conference Finals in 2009, ending many fans hope of a dream NBA Finals appearance between LeBron James and Kobe Bryant led teams. The Lakers defeated the Magic in five.
Howard achieved fame and superstar distinction wearing a Magic uniform, but he forced his way out of Orlando to join the LA Lakers via trade in 2012. Since then, Howard’s career turned upside down and he was not able to live up to expectations.
In his Hall of Fame induction for the Magic, Howard openly expressed regrets about his messy Orlando departure. And out of this experience, his advice is something for Antetokounmpo to consider.
The road ahead is undoubtedly challenging, but Antetokounmpo has a decision to make. Regardless of his decision, he will always remain the greatest Buck in NBA history who led the franchise to its second championship in 2021.