Giannis Antetokounmpo, well-known for his deep ties to European basketball, revealed during a press conference before the NBA All-Star Game that he is fully open to owning an NBA Europe team in the future. Discussing the possibility, the Greek star said he would consider becoming an owner “100%” if the right opportunity arose, emphasizing his commitment to basketball beyond his playing career.
Financial and Lifestyle Considerations for Ownership
While Giannis spoke positively about ownership, he expressed caution regarding the financial implications. He acknowledged uncertainty about whether he currently has the funds to invest in an NBA team without risking his or his family’s lifestyle. He noted that if he reaches a point where ownership is feasible without jeopardizing his wealth or well-being, he would seriously consider taking that step.
Interest in Various Roles Within Basketball
Giannis also talked about staying engaged with basketball in different capacities post-retirement. He mentioned the potential to transition into coaching or ownership as natural next steps. His passion for the sport was evident as he said,
“I love basketball, and anywhere that I can be involved with it, I would love it.”
Ownership Models in European Basketball
The player discussed the unique ownership structures in European basketball, particularly in the EuroLeague, where players sometimes hold equity in their teams. Using Vasilije Micic as an example, Giannis pointed out that some players can own a small percentage of their clubs while still actively playing. However, he raised questions about the logistics, such as what happens if a player is traded and whether they would have to sell their shares.
Strong Desire to Own a Team in Europe or Africa
Despite open questions about the mechanics of shared ownership between players and teams, Giannis expressed a strong desire to own a team someday, specifically mentioning Europe or Africa. His enthusiasm was clear as he stated emphatically, “1000%” he wants to be an owner in those regions, highlighting his deep connection to basketball globally and his hope to impact the sport’s growth worldwide.
“If there’s an opportunity that comes across my desk to be an owner in sports, anything, I would consider it 100%,”
?Giannis Antetokounmpo, NBA player
“In the real NBA, I don’t know if I have that type of money. If I ever come into a position where I’m able to make that decision and it won’t affect my lifestyle, my family’s lifestyle, and it won’t be too risky for my wealth and network, I will consider doing it,”
?Giannis Antetokounmpo, NBA player
“I love basketball, and anywhere that I can be involved with it, I would love it. I could transition to a coach or I could transition to an owner,”
?Giannis Antetokounmpo, NBA player
“I don’t know how it works, because in the Euroleague, players have that sports equity and they also play at the same time,”
?Giannis Antetokounmpo, NBA player
“Micic has the equity. I think he got like one or two percent of the team, and also he is one of the highest paid players in the Euroleague. I don’t know how that’s gonna work, but if there’s any position for players to get equity with the teams, yeah,”
?Giannis Antetokounmpo, NBA player
“But what would happen if they get traded? Will they have to sell their stake? What if they don’t want to?”
?Giannis Antetokounmpo, NBA player
