Milwaukee Bucks general manager Jon Horst isn't spending his time worrying about the competition that can steal away prized talisman Giannis Antetokounmpo, but rather creating that winning environment that can keep him in house:

“We want to be successful over a long period of time and be competitive for a long time and be resourceful,” Bucks general manager Jon Horst told ESPN's Tim Bontemps. “That's the answer. That's the direction. That's the focus. Yes, I believe if we do that, that's what I think Giannis wants to be part of. Winning. A family environment. He's a loyal guy who loves Milwaukee, and Wisconsin, and the Bucks, and we want to continue to grow and sustain something that we want him to be part of and build.”

Talk of the Golden State Warriors potentially arising as a threat to lure Antetokounmpo away from the Bucks inspired next to no fear in the eyes of Horst, as that possibility is still a couple of years removed from becoming a palpable possibility. Antetokounmpo is already good friends with Stephen Curry, who threw him the alley-oop of a lifetime during this past All-Star Game.

The two picked each other as the first overall selection during the last two iterations of the ASG, developing a bond as budding stars in the league. Horst isn't threatened by that whatsoever:

RECOMMENDED (Article Continues Below)
Giannnis Antetokounmpo (Bucks) shooting a ball that has medical cross symbol

Rexwell Villas ·

Pacers Bucks prediction

Jake Faigus ·

Damian Lillard debuts adidas Dame 9 vs. Pacers

Dominik Zawartko ·

“I don't want to sound naive, and it definitely isn't arrogant,” said Horst. “But I don't really concern myself with other superstars, other teams or their ability to keep or recruit guys.

“We are intentionally laser-focused on Milwaukee and building the culture, success and sustainability of our organization. I think if we stay focused on that, we'll be fine.”

Horst is aiming to keep Antetokounmpo happy and going far into the postseason, leaving him no reason to consider signing somewhere else in the summer of 2021. The Bucks will be able to offer him the most lucrative contract available, as he would likely have to take a sizable loss to join another team after winning the Most Valuable Player award this past season, making him eligible for the supermax.