You know it's the NBA offseason when a meager invitation to training camp sparks dreams of Giannis Antetokounmpo landing in Chicago.
Never mind that the earliest Antetokounmpo can become a free agent is 2025. The Chicago Bulls reportedly agreeing to terms with Kostas Antetokounmpo on Sunday for a mere chance to compete for a two-way contract created quite the stir amongst the fan base.
The reason why, of course, has little to do with Kostas' basketball credentials. The 24-year-old forward has appeared in 22 NBA games across three seasons with the Mavericks and Lakers, scoring a total of 21 points.
No, this signing made waves because Kostas is the brother of two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo, who plays 90 miles up I-94 in Milwaukee and this offseason expressed an openness to considering playing for the Bulls "down the line."
Could signing his brother mark the Bulls starting of a long-term pursuit of the Greek Freak?
Spoiler: Probably not. Giannis is signed to a supermax contract with the Bucks through 2026 (although he can opt out and become a free agent after the 2024-25 season if he so chooses). Too far in the future to project anything. Plus, the Bucks retained the majority of its core this offseason to gear up for another championship run after Khris Middleton's injury during the postseason derailed their repeat dream.
But that didn't stop some Bulls fans from dreaming — and lightheartedly theorizing a pursuit of Giannis on Twitter:
Others — again, jokingly — lauded Giannis for hinting at signing with the Bulls to indirectly compel the team to give his brother a shot:
As is the case with most NBA free-agent drama, the reality is likely more boring than the conspiracy. Kostas is 6-foot-10 with a 7-2 wingspan and, while yet unproven, may have some upside that intrigues the Bulls, who have plenty of need in the frontcourt. That is what two-way spots are for, after all: Taking dart-throws at prospects of interest. And even if Kostas doesn't crack the NBA roster, training camp invites can also serve as funnels to team's G League affiliates.
Or, Kostas could soon sing the praises of the Bulls organization to his older brother, planting seeds that could come to fruition "down the line."
NBA
The Bulls, and their fans, can dream.
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