What happened to Giannis Antetokounmpo? Bucks star’s unavailability for media day explored

NBA: Playoffs-Indiana Pacers at Milwaukee Bucks - Source: Imagn
What happened to Giannis Antetokounmpo? Bucks star’s unavailability for media day explored - Source: Imagn

Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo will be unavailable for the Bucks media day on Monday. He tested positive for COVID-19 and, as a result, will miss the start of training camp.

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This setback was revealed by Bucks' general manager, Jon Horst on Monday during the team's media day. The two-time MVP was scheduled to attend and will remain in his native Greece in isolation. He later performed his media duties via Zoom.

"He had an incredible offseason with the (Greek) national team, he's in great shape and when he joins us for camp, he's going to really hit the ground dribbling and running and he's in great shape," Horst said.

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“I’m definitely disappointed ... that I’m not able to be there with the team and get this ball rolling," Antetokounmpo said when he joined the Bucks’ media day stream remotely via Zoom. “As a leader, I don’t feel good about this, but at the end of the day, this is life.”

Giannis Antetokounmpo will return to meet a completely different Bucks team. The Bucks will be without Damian Lillard, who was waived and later joined the Portland Trail Blazers. The Bucks created space to sign center Myles Turner from the Indiana Pacers in free agency.

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The Bucks will resume training camp in Milwaukee on Tuesday.


What's next for Giannis Antetokounmpo and Milwaukee Bucks?

Despite the latest injury setback to Giannis Antetokounmpo, his future in Milwaukee is still in doubt. The Bucks had publicly signaled that he is not available for any trade deal. Bucks' governor Wes Edens confirmed on Monday during media day that the Greek Freak is committed to the organization.

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Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo  - Source: Imagn
Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo - Source: Imagn

With his salary and roster constraints, the Bucks are reportedly considering a "gap year" to retool their roster. The plan is to surround him with role players or younger pieces rather than bring in another super-max level player.

The Bucks re-signed his brother, Thanasis Antetokounmpo, to a one-year guaranteed deal. The contract was seen by fans and analysts as a sign of good faith for Giannis. However, if season number 13 doesn't end as planned, he might consider his future in Milwaukee.

Milwaukee Bucks Fans? Check out the latest Milwaukee Bucks depth chart, schedule, and roster updates all in one place.

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Edited by Ubong Richard
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