Giannis Antetokounmpo era to end in Milwaukee as Bucks will send two-time MVP to Miami Heat for young core

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The Milwaukee Bucks are trading two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo and forward Bobby Portis to the Miami Heat, closing the book on a historic run that delivered Milwaukee its first NBA title in 50 years.

Per ESPN’s Shams Charania, Miami will acquire Antetokounmpo and Portis in exchange for Tyler Herro, Kel’el Ware, Jaime Jaquez Jr. and Kasparas Jakucionis, along with three future first-round picks, the No. 13 pick in Tuesday’s draft, a future pick swap and a second-round pick.

Giannis Antetokounmpo looking on during a basketball game at Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee

The Boston Celtics and Heat gained steam as the leading suitors in the Giannis sweepstakes on the eve of the NBA Draft.

The trade comes after years of uncertainty surrounding Milwaukee’s direction following the departure of championship-winning head coach Mike Budenholzer in 2023 and caps a steady decline that culminated in the Bucks missing the 2026 playoffs.

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Antetokounmpo, 31, delivered the franchise’s first championship in 50 years in 2021 and cemented his place among the greatest players in team history. He was named one of the NBA’s top 75 players ever and is a two time MVP and was MVP of the Finals.

Giannis Antetokounmpo walking on the basketball court during warmups.

But after several disappointing post-title seasons and an injury-plagued 2025-26 campaign, the Bucks chose to pivot toward the future. The team sidelined Giannis against his wishes toward the end of the season.

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Rather than remain tied to an expensive roster with limited flexibility, Milwaukee capitalized on Antetokounmpo’s value.

Miami emerged from a crowded field of suitors to land one of the league’s biggest stars, signaling Riley’s continued willingness to sacrifice future assets in pursuit of another title. And Heat president Pat Riley finally landed the franchise cornerstone he has pursued for years.