Giannis Antetokounmpo can first become a free agent in the summer of 2027 , when he has a player option he can decline to hit the market.

Quick Scoop: Contract + Timing

  • Giannis is under contract with the Milwaukee Bucks through the 2026-27 season, with that final year structured as a player option for 2027-28.
  • If he opts out of that 2027-28 player option, he becomes an unrestricted free agent in the 2027 offseason.
  • He is also extension-eligible on October 1, 2026 , which is why there’s so much talk right now about his future and leverage even though true free agency is still a year later.

So, if you’re tracking “when does Giannis become a free agent,” the key answer is: the 2027 offseason, if he chooses to decline his 2027-28 player option.