The expectation for the best players in the league is Championship or bust. Due to the unenviable high standards they are held to, players have to be proactive with their decision-making. Not just on the court but off it as well. LeBron James may have set the model, but today’s stars carry it to a T. As a result, roster turnaround and coaching changes are increasingly rampant around the league. But, Giannis Antetokounmpo just went a step further to deny his involvement.

During his press conference after the Milwaukee Bucks brought on Doc Rivers in place of Adrian Griffin, the 2x NBA MVP was his usual candid self. However, this time around, it felt like The Greek Freak was deflecting blame from himself.

“I am not in meetings, those were taking place with I don’t know who ultimately makes a decision like that. Probably the GM and the owners. This time, I don’t know if there’s gonna be a coach that’s gonna come and take over. So, I don’t want to make assumptions. There’s gonna be a coach, obviously. There is a lot of media outlets that have put some names out there. But, as I said, today my coach is Joe Prunty and I respect him.”

While the decision for Rivers has been made final, is there already some trouble in paradise? Or is Giannis, now on his 4th coach, wary of the expectations that come with a coaching change? With a world of expectations surrounding them, can he overcome it with a new brainchild at the helm?

But, despite the swirling rumors, Giannis continues to maintain his deeply personal relationship with Adrian.

Giannis Antetokounmpo on the bond with Coach Griffin

Due to reports coming out, the common perception was that the ex-coach lost his locker room. Further, reports of Damian Lillard not finding his footing in the offense and Antetokounmpo’s displeasure at the state of the team became commonplace.

Given the celebratory mood the team was in during pre-game introductions, further fuel was given to these reports. However, to Giannis, that couldn’t be further from the truth. “False. I loved the guy.” Moreover, according to the 2021 NBA Champion, his responsibility is as a player rather than with front-office decisions.

But, the move has been made. And the vultures are swirling. Can Giannis “stick with basketball” and bring Milwaukee to the promised land?

Read More: Bucks GM Justifies Shocking Adrian Griffin Dismissal: “Dynamic of the Team Has Changed”