BREAKING: Giannis Antetokounmpo has officially been traded to the Dallas Mavericks, sources tell ESPN. The shocking deal comes just days after the Mavericks landed the No. 1 pick in the NBA Draft—widely expected to be top prospect Cooper Flagg—and weeks after sending Luka Dončić to the Lakers in a blockbuster for Anthony Davis.
In a stunning turn of events, Giannis Antetokounmpo has officially been traded to the Dallas Mavericks, sources tell ESPN. This blockbuster deal comes just days after the Mavericks secured the No. 1 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft—widely expected to be top prospect Cooper Flagg—and weeks after sending Luka Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers in a blockbuster trade for Anthony Davis.
The Mavericks have acquired Giannis Antetokounmpo from the Milwaukee Bucks in exchange for the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, expected to be Cooper Flagg, and multiple future first-round picks. The Bucks, in turn, will receive a package that includes the No. 1 pick, along with additional assets to be named later.
This trade is one of the most significant in recent NBA history, as it not only brings a two-time MVP and Finals MVP to Dallas but also marks a dramatic shift in the Mavericks’ strategy. The acquisition of Antetokounmpo signals the team’s commitment to contending for championships in the immediate future, rather than focusing solely on long-term development.
The addition of Giannis Antetokounmpo to the Mavericks’ roster dramatically alters the team’s dynamics. Pairing Antetokounmpo with Anthony Davis, who was acquired in the February trade with the Lakers, gives Dallas one of the most formidable frontcourts in the NBA. Both players are known for their defensive prowess, versatility, and ability to dominate on both ends of the court.
General Manager Nico Harrison, who has faced criticism for the Dončić trade, is now being lauded for his bold moves. The combination of Davis and Antetokounmpo positions the Mavericks as serious contenders in the Western Conference.
For the Milwaukee Bucks, this trade represents a significant shift in direction. With Antetokounmpo approaching the later stages of his prime, the Bucks have opted to rebuild around younger talent. The acquisition of the No. 1 pick and the opportunity to select a player like Cooper Flagg provides Milwaukee with a potential cornerstone for the future.
While the Bucks will miss Antetokounmpo’s leadership and on-court impact, the front office believes that this move sets the team up for sustained success in the coming years.
The trade has sent shockwaves through the NBA community. Mavericks fans, who were still reeling from the Dončić trade, are now expressing cautious optimism. The prospect of a Davis-Antetokounmpo pairing has reignited excitement in Dallas.
On the other hand, Bucks fans are grappling with the loss of a franchise icon. While some understand the rationale behind the rebuild, many are mourning the departure of Antetokounmpo and the end of an era in Milwaukee.
With the draft just around the corner, all eyes will be on the Mavericks to see how they utilize their remaining assets. The team now has the flexibility to bolster its roster further, potentially adding depth to the bench or acquiring additional pieces to complement the star duo of Davis and Antetokounmpo.
As the 2025-26 season approaches, the Mavericks have positioned themselves as a team to watch. With two of the league’s most dominant players leading the way, Dallas is poised to make a deep playoff run and challenge for an NBA championship.
