Giannis Antetokounmpo could not attend the Milwaukee Bucks‘ media day in person due to a case of Covid-19, though he took questions over Zoom from Greece. He rejoined the team shortly after but did not appear in either of the first two preseason games. Now, with some preseason practice reps under his belt, he is on track to debut Sunday against the Bulls.
Giannis to make debut, provide initial glimpse of new-look roster
Via Eric Nehm of The Athletic: “Bucks head coach Doc Rivers tells reporters that Giannis Antetokounmpo went live five-on-five at today’s practice and they plan on having him play on Sunday against the Bulls.”
Mar 24, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) celebrates a play against the Phoenix Suns at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
For Bucks fans, it will mark the first opportunity to see the face of the franchise in some semblance of NBA action since Milwaukee was eliminated from the playoffs on April 29. Giannis led Team Greece in Eurobasket over the summer, but obviously that did not take place on an NBA floor. At least for a quarter or so, he should be out there against the Bulls for a 6 PM CT tip-off.
With two games to go, the Bucks are off to a 2-0 start in the preseason, beating the Heat 103-93 and then Detroit 117-111 despite trailing by 12 at the half. AJ Green led the charge versus the Pistons with 22 points in 22 minutes, while Bobby Portis (11 points) and Kevin Porter Jr. (10 points) also reached double figures. Cole Anthony stuffed the stat sheet off the bench with 9 PTS, 7 REB, and 5 AST.
Sunday will be fans’ first chance to see the new-look roster around point-Giannis. Excited anticipation alongside some apprehension, has built all summer following the Bucks’ slew of free-agent moves. Not only did they bring in Myles Turner and Anthony, the front office retained key pieces like Porter, Portis, Gary Trent Jr., and Ryan Rollins, all of whom saw minutes in both preseason contests.
Jan 4, 2025; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) and guard AJ Green (20) reacts in the fourth quarter against the Portland Trail Blazers at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-Imagn Images
One of the last remaining orders of internal business is signing Green to an extension. So far, there has been no movement on that front.
Giannis and the Bucks wrap up preseason action against the Thunder on Tuesday, ahead of opening night at home, October 22, versus the Wizards – the Khris Middleton reunion game.
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