Having family in Milwaukee always kept Giannis Antetokounmpo closer to the Bucks. When they re-signed his brother Thanasis during EuroBasket, it almost ensured his return amid rampant trade rumors. However, in a surprise turn of events, Antetokounmpo’s family is fading away from Milwaukee. His wife, Mariah, and their children are shifting to the Greek Freak’s original home.

According to a report from “To Vima”, Marriah Riddlesprigger and their four children have all shifted to Athens on a permanent basis.  Antetokounmpo grew up in Greece and still represents their national team. Likewise, the family apparently had months of discussions before the decision was made.

The family is already beginning to settle in. Liam and Mavericks, the couple’s two eldest children, have started to attend a reputed private kindergarten. Furthermore, Mariah, along with their children, will live in a luxury apartment complex in Athens. Each of the Antetokounmpo brothers and their mother has an apartment in the same neighborhood. It’s still unclear how Giannis Antetokounmpo will balance a busy work schedule with his family.

With the regular season just beginning, Antetokounmpo is carrying the Bucks’ hopes of a resurgence. It’s also a major loss for the Wisconsin community. Mariah Riddesprigger heavily contributed to uplifting the community. Through their Charles Antetokounmpo Family Foundation, she led an annual diaper and fun drive, partnering with Milwaukee Diaper Mission. Her local presence will be missed.

Gianis Antetokounmpo though, will have to make several adjustments. Aside from Christmas Day and New Year’s, his family will reportedly remain in Greece. The two-time MVP will have to use video calls and other measures to keep in touch with his loved ones. While difficult, the timing is also inconvenient. Antetokounmpo is finding reasons to be in Milwaukee; this only intensifies the uncertainty of his future.

Giannis Antetokounmpo was open to leaving the Bucks

The NBA community patiently spent all summer waiting for Antetokounmpo to make a decision. Antetokounmpo didn’t give away any hints. The former Finals MVP refused to apply public pressure, too. But the rumors weren’t false. Giannis Antetokounmpo did consider his options, and there was one team that caught his attention.

According to Shams Charania, the Greek Freak only wanted to join the Knicks if he does leave Milwaukee.

The two teams had several conversations. Notably, the Knicks seemed open to the trade. The Bucks felt they never received a genuine offer. On the other hand, the Knicks felt they were never open to parting ways with the Greek Freak. What’s led to Giannis Antetokounmpo staying put, at least for this season.

Depending on how the Bucks perform, he could further evaluate his decision. In such critical decisions, families have a big influence. Luckily, Giannis Antetokounmpo will have his elder brother close, offering advice as he has throughout his career. But with his family relocating, Antetokounmpo doesn’t have an obligation to stay in Milwaukee anymore. All that will matter is how the franchise can sway his mind, and the only way to do that is by competing for the championship.