Giannis Antetokounmpo returned to the floor for the Milwaukee Bucks at Fiserv Forum on Monday after missing 15 straight games with a calf injury. His comeback did not spark a turnaround, though, as the Bucks fell 108-81 to the Boston Celtics in a one-sided defeat. The loss marked their third in a row and dropped Milwaukee to 26-34 on the season.
Antetokounmpo logged 25 minutes and scored 19 points while shooting 7 of 18 from the field. He added 11 rebounds, two assists, and a block, as head coach Doc Rivers carefully managed the two-time MVP’s workload in his first game back. The 31-year-old forward acknowledged afterward that he is still working to regain his rhythm following the extended absence.
“I’m just trying to get back into rhythm”
Giannis on what he’s looking to do to get the #Bucks back on track #fearthedeer pic.twitter.com/uQSglDf0LL
— ESPN Milwaukee (@ESPNMilwaukee) March 3, 2026
“I’m just trying to get back into rhythm. Not being able to play for six weeks, and the second time that I’ve actually played against contact was today. I feel like the more I’m in shape, the more I have my wind under me, the more I’ll be able to help my team,” the Greek Freak commented via ESPN.
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s return with the Bucks
Mar 2, 2026; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) comes out of the game near the end of the second quarter and walks past Milwaukee Bucks head coach Doc Rivers as they compete against the Boston Celtics at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Michael McLoone-Imagn Images
“I think right now, I’m at a place where I’m trying to figure out myself. I’m figuring out how I can fit with the team.”
The comment stood out from the former Finals MVP, considering the Bucks have constructed the roster with him as the centerpiece. Still, Antetokounmpo pointed out that he has not logged much court time alongside Kevin Porter Jr., Ryan Rollins, and midseason additions Cam Thomas and Ousmane Dieng, which has contributed to the adjustment period.
Mar 2, 2026; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) lays up a shot against Boston Celtics guard Derrick White (9) in the first half at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Michael McLoone-Imagn Images
Antetokounmpo, who found himself at the center of leaguewide trade speculation, has sat out a career high 29 games this season because of his calf issue. As of now, his status remains uncertain for Wednesday’s matchup against the Atlanta Hawks.