Looks like Milwaukee, Wisconsin, might be losing more than just basketball games this season; they might've lost the Antetokounmpo family, too. According to a new report from tovima.com, Giannis Antetokounmpo's wife, Mariah Riddlesprigger, and their four young children have reportedly packed their bags and made a permanent move to Athens, Greece. Yes, you read that right, permanent.
Basketnews claims that Mariah and the kids have settled into a "brand new futuristic-looking and custom-built apartment complex" in Athens' upscale Paleo Psychiko neighborhood, also known as the city's "diplomatic row." It's not just a random move, either; the complex was apparently designed for the entire Antetokounmpo clan, featuring separate apartments for Giannis' brothers and even one for his widowed mother. If that sounds like a serious family headquarters, that's because it is.
The report also noted that "after months of discussions among the entire Antetokounmpo family," Mariah was asked whether she preferred Milwaukee, where Giannis plays for the Bucks, or Athens. In the end, "the nod went to the Greek capital."
That decision didn't come without planning or perks. Their two oldest sons, Liam Charles (5) and Maverick Shai (4), have already started attending an elite private kindergarten in the same district. So while Giannis gets ready to grind through another grueling NBA season, his family will be living a world away, literally, surrounded by luxury, family, and a healthy dose of Mediterranean sunshine. Although fans are still a little concerned about this. Many seem to think Giannis is dealing with "Loyalty" issues. Whether that stems from his marriage or the Bucks organization is yet to be seen.
It's worth noting that the Antetokounmpos spent most of the summer together in Greece. Giannis competed in EuroBasket, representing his home country as Greece played in Cyprus and Latvia, with Mariah and the kids by his side. So it's not exactly shocking that the family grew comfortable enough there to make it a full-time thing. Still, calling it a "permanent move" definitely raised eyebrows in NBA circles.
Giannis, who's entering his 13th season with the Milwaukee Bucks, remains under contract through 2026-27, with a player option for 2027-28. That means, at least on paper, he's not going anywhere anytime soon. But this move from his family does have fans speculating about his long-term plans. If your wife and kids are living in another country, how long before you want to join them?
That's the big question swirling online. Giannis has always been vocal about his love for Milwaukee and the city's role in shaping his NBA journey. But he's also been open about how important Greece and family are to him. The Antetokounmpo story has always been about both balancing his Greek heritage and his NBA superstar life. Now, it seems that the balance may be tipping back toward Athens.
Of course, fans shouldn't jump to conclusions just yet. This could simply be a lifestyle choice, especially with the kids still young and Giannis often spending offseasons overseas. Mariah, who's from California, has talked before about the challenges of raising a family while juggling Giannis' demanding schedule. Maybe a slower pace, closer family ties, and a little Greek sunshine sounded better than another brutal Wisconsin winter. Still, from a PR perspective, this move feels like a statement, even if it's an unspoken one.
Giannis' numbers last season were nothing short of MVP-worthy: 30.4 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 6.5 assists per game. He's still the heart of the Bucks and arguably the best player in the world. But having your family half a world away during an NBA season is no small thing.
Will this change how he approaches his future with Milwaukee? Only time will tell. For now, the "Greek Freak" might be spending his nights in Wisconsin, but his heart and his home base may be firmly rooted back in Athens.