Giannis Antetokounmpo invites Nikola Jokić to join him in NBA's biggest market

Giannis Antetokounmpo, the biggest star of the Milwaukee Bucks, caused a stir in the NBA with his brave statements. The Greek basketball player called on Nikola Jokic to leave the Denver Nuggets and join the New York Knicks to "start a European revolution in basketball." 

While the call may have come as a surprise, the 30-year-old Antetokounmpo has decided to publicly share his desire for European talent to take up bigger positions in the NBA as players like himself continue to dominate the league.

European basketball players in big markets

Antetokounmpo pointed out that he wants to see European stars, such as Jokić and Dončić, in bigger markets. "I want Luka in the Lakers. I want Jokic in the Knicks. And I want all Europeans in the big markets. That's my dream," said the Greek, emphasizing that it would contribute to the growth and globalization of the league. 

Given that the NBA has become increasingly global, Antetokounmpo believes that European players deserve to play for the most famous franchises.

The reigning MVP of the league, Jokic, who led Denver to the NBA title in 2023, remains loyal to his club and has never given any indication that he would like to change his club. Nevertheless, Giannis believes that his transfer to one of the big franchises could mean a shift in global dominance.

“I think it's crazy. You never know what will happen, it's a job. Every day you're a target of evaluations, nothing is guaranteed," Antetokounmpo said. 

Despite this, everyone in the NBA is carefully watching what will happen to Dončić after he shocked everyone by moving from the Dallas Mavericks to the Los Angeles Lakers.

Although many are surprised by his transfer, Giannis believes that such changes are a normal part of basketball life.

Perhaps the NBA scene could present many more surprises in the coming period. Whether Jokic will be part of those surprises is difficult to answer.