Giannis Antetokounmpo Sends Thank You Message Amid 13th Season With Bucks

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Paolo Songco | Last updated Feb 17, 2026 8:57 PM ET

Injuries have gotten in the way of Giannis Antetokounmpo’s 13th season with the Milwaukee Bucks. The two-time NBA MVP has missed the last nine games due to a lingering calf injury. Antetokounmpo was unable to play in the NBA All-Star Game as well, despite being voted onto the team for the ninth time in his career.

Antetokounmpo has been limited to just 30 games so far this season. He is averaging 28.0 points on 64.5% shooting, 10.0 rebounds and 5.6 assists in 29.2 minutes per contest.

The Bucks have struggled with their cornerstone superstar missing significant time. Milwaukee is currently 12th in the Eastern Conference with a 23-30 record.

Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo drives to the basket against the Golden State Warriors.Robert Edwards-Imagn Images

Antetokounmpo took to social media on Tuesday night to send a heartfelt message. The 31-year-old addressed his fans, expressing his gratitude he has received over the past several years.

“I have two words: THANK YOU!

“You allow me and my family to create beautiful memories and experiences that we will cherish and talk about forever. I promise I will never take that for granted.

“It’s been an up-and-down season with injuries, but when I get back out there, I’ll play for each and every one of you. That’s the least I can do,” he wrote.

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Antetokounmpo has acknowledged how 2025-26 has been tough for him. However, he’s also promised to make an impact once he returns.

At this point, there is still no firm timetable for Antetokounmpo’s comeback. However, the one-time NBA champion revealed on Saturday that he feels 100% healthy. The Bucks will continue to take a cautious approach to their superstar's health, but it appears Antetokounmpo will be back sooner rather than later.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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