MIAMI — Miami Heat fans continued to celebrate Wednesday just one day after the team landed Giannis Antetokounmpo in a blockbuster trade, bringing one of the NBA’s biggest stars to South Florida.
“I was shocked. I was sleeping and then all my friends started texting me the news that we had got him,” Heat fan Victor Paneque said.
Known as the “Greek Freak,” Antetokounmpo is expected to bring star power and championship experience to a franchise looking to return to title contention.
“I was happy, grateful and also it’s pretty cool to see it,” said Heat fan Xavier Urbina.
The trade sends the 31-year-old from Milwaukee to Miami, exchanging Wisconsin winters for South Florida sunshine and ending months of speculation about his future.
“It was great. I was waiting for it,” Heat fan CC Bovee said. “I did not want him to go to the Celtics because I do not like the Boston Celtics.”
For many Heat supporters, the acquisition represents a major step forward after several seasons of falling short of championship expectations.
“Giannis has the courage, the playmaker, defense, offense. A ring,” Urbina said.
“I’m looking for Heat momentum, how we get better,” added Alvani Urbina. “The past couple of years without LeBron (James), (Dwyane) Wade retiring, (Chris) Bosh retiring” (have been tough).
Bovee believes Antetokounmpo’s style of play is a natural fit in Miami.
“His style will definitely fit in the Heat culture,” she said.
While Heat fans are celebrating, the move has left many Milwaukee supporters disappointed.
“He was so important to the city. I loved watching him play. I’m sad. I’m very sad,” Bucks fan Cal Branger said.
Branger and his wife, Isabelle, said they plan to continue cheering for Antetokounmpo despite the trade.
“Honestly, it kind of feels like a fever dream still,” Isabelle Branger said. “It feels like I got dumped a little bit, but the last two years there were whispers.”
“He’s one of the most exciting players to watch,” Cal Branger added. “Every time he goes to the basket or makes a great block. I would say enjoy him, please enjoy him.”
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