Giannis Antetokounmpo left Milwaukee this summer, after 11 years with the team, and moved to Miami with the goal of leading the Heat back to the Promised Land.

Today (July 16), what many fans of the team had been waiting for finally happened. The “Greek Freak” was officially introduced by the Heat, and he posed for photos alongside Pat Riley and Erik Spoelstra, holding the No. 7 jersey in his hands.

At the same time, Giannis explained in his remarks the reasons that led him to choose the Heat, revealing that two key factors determined his decision. As he noted, on the one hand, the team’s coach, Erik Spoelstra, and his basketball acumen played a decisive role, while on the other hand, life in Miami was also an important factor.

Here is what he said in detail:

“I believe the new season will definitely be tough. Any NBA season, with 82 games, isn’t easy. It’s a long journey. I’m excited to have a player like Bam by my side who will support me, and I know he’ll take a huge weight off my shoulders.

Sure, when you look at the bench and see an experienced coach like Erik Spoelstra, it makes your job much easier, because you know he’ll put you in the right situations so you can be successful when you play.

I like Miami because it’s a very family-oriented and friendly city. I have family who’ve lived in Miami for years; that’s where I met my wife, too. It’s a warm city, and that’s good for me as I get older. That’s why I chose Miami.”

The video from the presentation

A new era of HEAT basketball starts now. pic.twitter.com/xaw4ihSJGO

— Miami HEAT (@MiamiHEAT) July 16, 2026

*photo source: AP