Giannis Antetokounmpo Returns to Bucks Training Camp After COVID Recovery

Giannis Antetokounmpo Returns to Practice

In a significant development for the Milwaukee Bucks, Giannis Antetokounmpo returned to practice on Saturday, marking his first participation of the season after being sidelined due to a COVID-19 recovery in his home country of Greece. Coach Doc Rivers confirmed that the star forward engaged in non-contact drills during the session, emphasizing the athlete’s need for a gradual return to form.

“He mentioned he needs a solid three days to get back up to speed,” Rivers stated.

Antetokounmpo’s Journey Back

Antetokounmpo’s journey back to the court began when he arrived in Miami on Friday, ahead of the Bucks’ preseason activities. Following a virtual appearance during media day earlier in the week, he missed the initial days of training camp that took place in Milwaukee before the team relocated to Florida International University for their workouts leading up to their exhibition game against the Miami Heat on Monday.

Health and Recovery

Reflecting on his health, Antetokounmpo acknowledged the lingering effects of the virus:

“I believe it has impacted my body. I’m not at 100 percent yet in terms of physical condition,” he noted. “I’m taking it one day at a time to regain my fitness. I managed some 5-on-0 drills and did a bit of running. Tomorrow should be better, and with 18 days until the season opener, I expect to be fine.”

Career Highlights

The two-time MVP, who will celebrate his 31st birthday in December, enters his 13th season with the Bucks. His achievements include being a nine-time All-Star and an NBA champion, and he stands out as one of the few players to have averaged at least 30 points per game in the previous three seasons, sharing this honor only with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Strategic Insights

Rivers indicated that Antetokounmpo’s absence could prove beneficial in a specific way; it allows the team to explore their strategies for the times when he is not on the floor.

“The focus has always been on how we manage the game when Giannis is off the court,” Rivers explained. “This experience might provide us with essential insights for the future.”