‘He’s a local legend:’ What a potential Giannis Antetokounmpo trade would mean for local economy
MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) – Just ahead of the 2026 NBA Draft, Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo could be traded. If he leaves Milwaukee, it would be a massive change for the city influenced by his success, which has impacted the local economy.
Jim Tichy is a manager at MODA3, a business that sells apparel in Milwaukee’s Historic Third Ward. He says about 20% of their inventory is related to the Bucks, and many items have Antetokounmpo’s jersey number.
“Giannis is huge. He’s a local legend,” Tichy said. “We got his mural up a couple blocks over. Also, people come from around the world, people from all different countries, people are here and they say, ‘We just want to see Giannis,’ and they’ll get a Giannis shirt, or a jersey, just to see him.”
In 2021, VISIT Milwaukee estimated the total economic impact of the three rounds of playoff games, as well as the NBA Finals, brought $57.6 million in direct and indirect spending to the community. Antetokounmpo was a driving force behind that win and the investment into the organization that followed.
“We’re incredibly grateful that the Milwaukee Bucks’ fantastic run brought a vital boost to our economy,” VISIT Milwaukee President and CEO Peggy Williams-Smith said in 2021. “These dollars pumped much-needed life into many of the businesses that struggled the most during the pandemic, and they helped support thousands of jobs.”
Unfortunately for Bucks fans, the Bucks haven't seen the same success in the playoffs in recent years. CBS 58 spoke to fans on Monday who shared how this could impact the city.
“I think there are probably a lot of tough times ahead,” said Jack Horsch, who lives in Milwaukee. “[Antetokounmpo] is obviously somebody who has been the face of the franchise for years now.”
Tichy said he believes a trade could also potentially bring opportunity for more economic success.
“He’s been our guy, but it's also an opportunity to see what the next generation holds,” Tichy said.