Giannis Antetokounmpo was heard firmly telling Harden, “Stop pushing off,” while Harden quickly shot back with irritationGiannis Antetokounmpo (Image Credits: X/@legendz_prod)
This offseason feels very different for Giannis Antetokounmpo. After nearly a decade of anchoring the Milwaukee Bucks, the two-time MVP faces an uncertain future with the team.

Meanwhile, speculation about his long-term commitment to Milwaukee continues to swirl. Amid this, Giannis has shifted his focus toward representing Greece at EuroBasket 2025. But as he looks ahead, echoes of his past continue to follow him.

Recently, a leaked audio clip from 2014 resurfaced, reigniting memories of his heated on-court exchange with James Harden. During that game, Giannis firmly told Harden, “Stop pushing off.” Harden quickly shot back with irritation, replying, “What? Don’t touch me.”

Their paths crossed again in 2021, when the Bucks and Brooklyn Nets clashed in the Eastern Conference semifinals. Milwaukee narrowly advanced in a seven-game series that propelled Giannis toward his first NBA championship.

After hoisting the Larry O’Brien Trophy, Giannis made comments. Many interpreted his take as a direct shot at Harden and other stars who teamed up on superteams.

“Like it’s easy to go somewhere and go and win a championship with somebody else. It’s easy. I could go; I don’t want to put anybody in this spot, but I could go to a super team and, you know, just do my part and win a championship, still win one. But this is the hard way to do it, and this is the way. And we did it. We fucking did it. We did it, man,” Giannis said.

Milwaukee Pushes Back On Greek Federation Over Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Participation

Giannis Antetokounmpo Giannis Antetokounmpo (Image Credits: Imagn)
Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Greek national team are still awaiting written permission from the Milwaukee Bucks for his participation. According to Greek basketball insider Nikos Papadogiannis, the situation between the Bucks and the Hellenic Basketball Federation has grown tense. Papadogiannis revealed that Milwaukee has expressed deep frustration over how the federation has handled matters surrounding Giannis’ potential participation.

“Many details remain confidential, but it’s clear Milwaukee is frustrated with the Greek federation, accusing them of arrogance and amateurism,” Papadogiannis reported.

At the heart of the issue are claims that the Greek federation failed to meet key requirements tied to player insurance and transparency. The Bucks reportedly cited missed deadlines regarding insurance policies and a lack of clear communication over training schedules and medical monitoring.