Despite $186 million extension, Giannis Antetokounmpo's value to Bucks is more than $2 billion

Giannis Antetokounmpo won the NBA's Most Valuable Player award in 2019 and 2020. However, his value to the Milwaukee Bucks continues to rise, especially off the court. On Oct. 23, Giannis signed a three-year contract extension with Milwaukee worth $186 million. Yet, the economic boost he brings to the franchise and the city is worth far more.

According to Joe Pompliano, Giannis' value to the Bucks and the city of Milwaukee is worth approximately $2 billion. Pompliano is accounting for the rise in attendance, ticket sales and the economic boost the city receives whenever Milwaukee hosts a home game during the NBA season.

Pompliano's math likely works on averages, as postseason competition will draw more attention than regular-season games.

Pompliano noted that when Giannis was drafted in 2013, the Bucks had an average attendance of 13,487; last season, they averaged 17,555. The franchise had an annual revenue of $110 million in 2013; last season, the franchise earned $352 million. The Bucks franchise is also valued at $3.5 billion, compared to the $312 million valuation in 2013.

"The average Bucks playoff game also brings the city of Milwaukee $3 million in economic activity, fills 2,500 hotel room nights, and creates 700 jobs," Pompliano posted on X.

Giannis Antetokounmpo has become one of the most dominant players in the NBA. His likable personality and fierce competitive nature have also made him a household name worldwide. Milwaukee is consistently in contention for a deep postseason run, which allows them to appeal to a wider audience due to the successful nature of their current program.

Since being drafted, Giannis has helped improve Milwaukee's franchise, and it would appear the entire city has benefitted as a result.

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Giannis Antetokounmpo is following the LeBron James blueprint

Throughout his 21-year career in the NBA, LeBron James has avoided the pitfalls that come with incredible fame. The veteran superstar has avoided scandal and has never been in trouble with the police.

Giannis Antetokounmpo is looking to follow the blueprint the legendary forward has laid out, as he wants to be remembered for his work on the basketball court.

“For 21 years, you never get in trouble, to be able to take in his family, protect this family, raise his kids the right way, you know, be happily married, all those things, it’s perfect.” Giannis told The Athletic's Joe Vardon. "He’s kind of like setting the blueprint for the rest of us to go forward. That’s what I want."

Giannis continued:

"I want to be able to do what I do on the court consistently, be good, be healthy, be available for my team, be able to, you know, raise my family in a bubble away from what I do on the court for them to have a normal life as much as I can. Stay out of trouble."

Giannis is entering his 11th season in the NBA. So far, he has stuck to LeBron's blueprint. He consistently takes care of his body and has been vocal regarding his love of family and desire to be at home when he's not with his team. The two-time MVP is one of the most wholesome players in the entire league.

That type of family-first commitment helps make Giannis marketable and bodes well for the Milwaukee Bucks' chances of success.