Pat Riley admits it was hard to part ways with multiple players in the blockbuster trade

Trading for Giannis Antetokounmpo was a massive investment for the Miami Heat. Since he is one of the league's best players, getting him required a significant trade package. This was a tough decision for team president Pat Riley because he liked the players they parted ways with.

The Heat sent Tyler Herro, Kel'el Ware, Jaime Jaquez Jr., Kasparas Jakucionis, and three first-round picks to the Milwaukee Bucks. That was a big-time package for a superstar, and it was a difficult decision for Riley and his front office because they had to give up so much.

Pat Riley knows the Heat had to give up so much for Giannis Antetokounmpo

Getting a superstar always requires a significant investment. Whether that is through a huge contract in free agency or a big trade, there is always a need for investment in a huge talent. The Heat are well aware of that because they have made massive moves in the past.

This includes getting Shaquille O'Neal back in 2004, signing LeBron James and Chris Bosh in 2010, and many more. They are a team that is well known for taking big swings, and Riley has been at the helm for all of those decisions over the past three decades.

MORE: The Heat had to give up a significant package to get Giannis Antetokounmpo

Swinging for Giannis was an obvious choice to make because the Heat needed a change. They have been toiling in mediocrity for a long while, so getting a superstar was the quickest and most effective remedy for that. However, they did have to give up a lot to get him and Bobby Portis Jr.

"We gave up a significant price. He’s worth it. Period. That’s how I look at it. Those are 3 very good young players. One has a lot of experience, but the other three are very good young players with huge upside. We don’t have to figure out what this player's upside is. He may not even have maxed out yet," Riley said after Antetokounmpo's introductory press conference.

Antetokounmpo is hungry to win again, as it has been five years since he won the championship with the Bucks. Now that he is with the Heat, he has improved chances of winning all over again.

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