The National Basketball Players Association released a statement on Tuesday harshly criticizing the Milwaukee Bucks’ plan to shut down Giannis Antetokounmpo for the remainder of the season.
The Bucks currently sit 11th in the Eastern Conference, eight games behind the Charlotte Hornets for the final play-in spot. With 11 games remaining on their schedule, the Bucks’ season is effectively over. Still, the 31-year-old Antetokounmpo has made it clear that he would like to play once healthy from a hyperextended knee.
Holding the two-time NBA Most Valuable Player out if healthy is tantamount to tanking, the PA says.
Statement from the National Basketball Players Association on the Milwaukee Bucks' desires to shut down Giannis Antetokounmpo, who wants to play: pic.twitter.com/4WUKBQH8A2
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) March 24, 2026
“The Player Participation Policy was designed by the league to hold teams accountable and ensure that when an All-Star like Giannis Antetokounmpo is healthy and ready to play, he is on the court,” the statement read. “Unfortunately, anti-tanking policies are only as effective as their enforcement; fans, broadcast partners, and the integrity of the game itself will continue to suffer as long as ownership goes unchecked. We look forward to collaborating with the NBA on meaningful new proposals that will directly address and discourage tanking.”
Antetokounmpo has missed the team’s last four contests. He last played in 134-123 victory over the Indiana Pacers on Mar. 15. Prior to the knee injury, the Athens native had been sidelined with a calf issue. With the injuries, the 13-year pro has appeared in only 36 games this season, by far the fewest number in his career.
A 10-time All-Star, Antetokounmpo has averaged 27.6 points on .624 shooting, 9.8 boards and 5.4 assists over 28.9 minutes per night, his lowest usage since his rookie season.
The Bucks return to action on Wednesday night with a visit to the Portland Trail Blazers.