Darvin Ham says Bucks need to follow Greece’s lead with Giannis Antetokounmpo

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Darvin Ham watched Giannis Antetokounmpo play for Greece and came away with an idea he thinks the Milwaukee Bucks should consider.

Giannis has once again become the centre of attention this NBA offseason, as questions about his future continue to surface. The Bucks forward has a knack for fueling speculation now and then.

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This move allowed them to bring in Myles Turner from the Indiana Pacers, adding some much-needed strength inside.

But according to Darvin Ham, it might be less about roster moves and more about style. He believes that simply playing like Greece does could be the key to keeping Giannis content in Milwaukee.

Darvin Ham talks up Greece’s system in EuroBasket win over Italy

Giannis Antetokounmpo led Greece to a 75-66 win over Italy at EuroBasket, with Bucks head coach Darvin Ham in the stands to watch.

Asked about the differences, he pointed out that Greece play more as a unit, while the NBA demands Giannis take on a heavier individual load.

“Absolutely. It’s more team-oriented, more sets. All of that is different here. They don’t play as fast as we do in the NBA. In the NBA, his usage rate is off the charts,” Ham said.

“He always has the ball in his hand. A little bit different role for him over there. He does a great job of including his teammates.

“I can’t stress that enough. With us, he has to be Superman. It’s good to see him able to do both.”

Eastern conference heavyweights remain ahead of the Milwaukee Bucks

Antetokounmpo scored 31 points and pulled in seven rebounds, leading Greece in both categories. He was also the only player on his team to break double figures.

The Bucks will be hoping he brings that same energy into the NBA season, where they’ll have plenty to prove. Despite adding Myles Turner, Milwaukee are still seen as being behind several Eastern Conference contenders.

With injuries sidelining the Indiana Pacers and Boston Celtics from title contention, teams like the New York Knicks and Cleveland Cavaliers remain strong threats. Meanwhile, the Orlando Magic and Atlanta Hawks have made noticeable improvements.

The decision to waive Damian Lillard has left Milwaukee’s depth a bit thin, meaning they’ll need their core group to stay healthy if they’re going to keep up with the top sides in what’s become a deeper conference.