Giannis Antetokounmpo claimed his motivation level is at "a million percent" as he prepares for his first NBA season as a Miami Heat player.

Following 13 seasons with the Milwaukee Bucks, who took the forward as the 15th overall pick in the 2013 draft, Antetokounmpo was traded to the Heat after outlining his desire for a new challenge. 

The 31-year-old won the NBA championship in 2021, clinching the Finals MVP award as the Bucks overcame the Phoenix Suns.

He has also been named regular-season MVP twice, Defensive Player of the Year once (2020), an All-NBA first-team player seven times and Most Improved Player in 2017, among many other accolades.

Antetokounmpo, who averaged 27.6 points, 9.9 rebounds and five assists across an injury-hit 2025-26 season, is now raring to go with the Heat.

When asked about his motivation levels ahead of the new season, Antetokounmpo told ESPN: "It's at like a million percent right now.

The jersey reveal y’all have been waiting for… pic.twitter.com/j50dAQEx04

— Miami HEAT (@MiamiHEAT) July 16, 2026

"You walk through the hallways, and you see the history and the players that have been a part of this organisation and things that they've done.

"I want to make all the moves that they've made worth it.

"It's a place I feel like brings pressure, and I thrive under pressure. It brings the best out of me.

"I'm excited to be coached by [Erik Spoelstra]. I'm excited to be around the city.

"I understand the fans are very passionate, but right now, I'm hungry to win. I want to win and I will do whatever it takes for me to win."