The Antetokounmpo brothers won’t be sharing the same NBA court this upcoming 2026-27 season, not even close. Thanasis Antetokounmpo is taking his talents overseas, officially signing a two-year deal with Aris B.C. in the Greek Basketball League. This move, which also includes a team option for a third season, comes right on the heels of his younger brother Giannis’ trade from the Milwaukee Bucks to the Miami Heat this offseason. Talk about a seismic shift for the Antetokounmpo family in the league, right?
From D-League Dreams to NBA Champion
Let’s rewind a bit on Thanasis’ journey to this point, because it’s been a ride. Giannis’ older brother actually started his professional career in the States way back in 2013, drafted by the Delaware 87ers in what was then the NBA Developmental League. A year later, the New York Knicks picked him 51st overall in the NBA draft. He spent most of the next two seasons balling out with their D-League squad, but he did get a taste of the big show, hitting the court for back-to-back NBA games on January 29 and 31, 2016. After that 2015-16 season, Thanasis actually dipped out of the NBA scene for three years, heading overseas himself to play in Spain and Greece. It feels like a full circle moment now, doesn’t it?
Seven Seasons, an NBA Ring, and a Tough Farewell
His return to the NBA came in July 2019, when the Milwaukee Bucks brought him back to play alongside Giannis. And what a run it was! Thanasis spent seven seasons with the Bucks, and yeah, he even got an NBA title ring during their incredible 2020-21 campaign. That’s something you can never take away, a championship. Unfortunately, the dude faced a massive setback, missing the entire 2024-25 season after tearing his Achilles. He battled back, though, returning for the 2025-26 season. The 34-year-old appeared in 34 games for the Bucks last season, averaging 1.4 points off the bench. With Giannis now gone from Milwaukee after the trade to Miami, it really signals the end of an era for the Antetokounmpo brothers in the NBA. This isn’t just a player leaving, it’s a brotherhood on the court officially splitting.
For Aris B.C., they’re bringing in a seasoned pro with championship experience. The Greek squad finished the 2025-26 regular season with a 14-10 record, making it into the playoffs before ultimately losing in the quarterfinals to AEK. Getting Thanasis back to Greece could be a huge boost for them. What impact will his leadership and veteran presence have? We’ll be watching to see how he elevates his new team.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Bleacher Report.
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