Milwaukee Bucks head coach Doc Rivers said on Dec. 5 that the team expects Giannis Antetokounmpo to be out for up to four weeks due to a calf injury. The former back-to-back MVP is now closing in on three weeks since that last major update, which suggests that Antetokounmpo should be making significant progress in his rehab by now.
Injuries have gotten in the way of Antetokounmpo’s 13th year with the Bucks. In 17 games played this season, the nine-time All-Star has produced averages of 28.9 points on 63.9% shooting, 10.1 rebounds and 6.1 assists in 29.1 minutes per contest.
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Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) during an NBA game.David Richard-Imagn Images
Antetokounmpo has also been heavily linked to trade rumors of late. Reports surfaced that he demanded a trade away from Milwaukee, but the 31-year-old himself has come out to deny the rumors and reiterate his commitment to the team — at least for now.
On Saturday, the Bucks took to social media to announce a crucial update on Antetokounmpo’s road to recovery. The team revealed that the 6-foot-11 forward has returned to practice by sharing a photo of him on the court in full gear.
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“Giannis sighting at practice,” the Bucks posted on X.
It is unclear what type of participation Antetokounmpo had in Saturday’s practice, but the fact that he’s back on the court with his teammates is a step in the right direction. It isn’t likely that the nine-time All-NBA forward will be available for Milwaukee’s next game, but this development is a positive sign nonetheless.
The Bucks will continue to take a cautious approach to the health of their cornerstone superstar. However, his return to practice only means that Antetokounmpo is finally getting closer to his much-anticipated return.
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The Bucks can use all the help they can get, with the team struggling to find consistency with Antetokounmpo on the shelf. They currently have an 11-17 record heading into Sunday’s road game against the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Related: Bucks Eyeing Two-Time All-Star Amid Pressure From Giannis Antetokounmpo: Report
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Dec 20, 2025, where it first appeared in the NBA section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.