Giannis Antetokounmpo’s dream involves the Knicks, but not in the way you think

Giannis Antetokounmpo is officially the new face of the Miami Heat. The Milwaukee Bucks traded him to South Beach this offseason, ending a 13-year run where he won a championship, took home MVP awards, and became a franchise icon. 

Read more 2026 European Darts Open: Draw, schedule, prize money and format explained

Now, he is the main reason LeBron James is considering a return to Miami. At 41, James is openly weighing the move just to play alongside him, believing that this roster featuring Antetokounmpo gives him a real chance to win another championship

In the middle of this chaotic free-agency time, Antetokounmpo shared his post-retirement plans during a livestream interview with streamer N3on, who ran through a rapid-fire set of questions.

One question he asked was, ‘If you could coach any team right now, what team would you want to coach?’ The 31-year-old replied, ‘The New York Knicks.»

Giannis says he wants to become an NBA coach after retirement.

Neon: “If you could coach any team right now, what team would you want to coach?”

Giannis: “The New York Knicks.”

(h/t @yoxics) pic.twitter.com/hwU83yg6ua

Read more Coljuegos Surpasses 46,000 Blocking Orders Against Illegal Online Gambling Sites Since 2022

— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) July 8, 2026

Antetokounmpo didn’t explain his choice, but it makes sense given the recent trade rumors. The Knicks were heavily linked to him before Milwaukee traded him to Miami. Even though team owner James Dolan claimed in January that he knew nothing about it, the rumors persisted all season.

The fact that the Knicks just won the 2026 championship gives his answer extra weight with New York fans. Whether Giannis picked them because of the past trade buzz, the current roster, or just as a quick response, he didn’t elaborate. 

For now, coaching and retirement are not in his book because he has at least eight or nine years to deliver in the league. He is focused on playing for Miami alongside Bam Adebayo, where they hope to add King James and build a legitimate contender.

Read more Luka Doncic has one feeling for Lakers future after LeBron James exit

More NBA news:

• Mavs looks like the clear winner of the Santi Aldama trade after Memphis settles for unproven big man
• Mavericks rookie Sergio De Larrea reveales the childhood idol who made him a Dallas fan
• Mavericks miss out on proven floor-spacer after Clippers swoop in during free agency
• 76ers’ pitch to LeBron James is hard for Cavaliers, Heat, Warriors to compete with
• Four teams still believe they can land LeBron James despite vibes pointing toward Cleveland