Patryk Stachowiak
The Milwaukee Bucks received a major boost on Saturday as Giannis Antetokounmpo rejoined the team for the first time this season following his recovery from COVID-19. The two-time MVP, who spent the past few weeks recuperating in Greece, took part in non-contact drills under the supervision of head coach Doc Rivers.
“He said he’s going to need a good three days,”
Rivers told reporters, confirming that Giannis is still working his way back to full fitness. The Bucks’ talisman returned to Miami on Friday, just in time to link up with the squad during their warm-weather training sessions at Florida International University.
Gradual Return to Action
While Antetokounmpo participated only in light, non-contact work, his presence was a welcome sight for teammates preparing for the preseason opener against the Miami Heat on Monday. Speaking after practice, Giannis admitted he’s not yet at peak condition but remains confident about regaining form before the season tips off.
“I think it took a toll on my body. I’m not feeling 100% yet physically,” Giannis said. “Just taking it day by day, getting back in shape. I’ve got like 18 days until the first game, so I think I’ll be fine.”
The 31-year-old enters his 13th NBA season — all with Milwaukee — carrying an extraordinary résumé: a nine-time All-Star, NBA champion, Finals MVP, and one of only two players to average over 30 points per game in each of the past three seasons. The other? Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the reigning champion Oklahoma City Thunder.
Giannis Antetokounmpo. Source: slate.com
Turning a Setback into an Opportunity
Coach Rivers suggested that Giannis’s absence at the start of camp might actually benefit the team’s development. With the Bucks already well aware of what their superstar brings, the early practices have given Rivers a chance to fine-tune rotations and explore strategies for those crucial minutes when Giannis is off the court.
“The key to our team every year is the minutes when Giannis is off the floor,”
Rivers explained.
“So, we’ve been working on that. And maybe that’ll help us in the long run.”
As the Bucks continue their preseason preparations in Miami, Antetokounmpo’s focus will be on rebuilding endurance and timing. His return brings both relief and renewed optimism to a team eyeing another deep playoff run — one that will inevitably depend on their Greek superstar’s health and leadership.
Milwaukee opens its preseason campaign against the Miami Heat on Monday, marking the first step in what promises to be another high-stakes season for the Bucks.