Following the blockbuster trade that sent Giannis Antetokounmpo from the Milwaukee Bucks to the Miami Heat, the two-time NBA MVP will wear No. 7 as he begins the next phase of his Hall of Fame career. The jersey change marks the end of an unforgettable era in Milwaukee and the beginning of what Miami hopes will be another championship run. The trade was finalized on July 6 after the NBA’s moratorium period ended.
While the Heat have not had a player define the franchise in No. 7 quite like Giannis has with No. 34 in Milwaukee, the number now carries enormous expectations. Miami is counting on Antetokounmpo to elevate the franchise back into championship contention alongside Bam Adebayo after acquiring him in one of the biggest trades in team history.
Giannis Antetokounmpo wore the No. 34 for the Milwaukee Bucks for 13 season, making it the most legendary number in Bucks history. It seems this decision is so he can keep that numbers legacy in Milwaukee and start a new legacy with a new number on his new team.
There is no doubt in my mind that the Milwaukee Bucks will retire Antetokounmpo’s number and give him a statue outside of Fiserv Forum. An emotional farewell will also be a fresh start for both sides.
For the Bucks, the bring in a fresh young core, as their got a lot younger in average age. On the other side, Giannis is looking to chase his 2nd NBA Championship with a new team built to win now. The Miami Heat are not new to trading for superstars and winning championships. All both sides can do now are be thankful for the 13 years they spent together and go their separate ways.
