Jan 1, 2025; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Orlando Magic guard Cole Anthony (50) reacts as he watches trainers work on Detroit Pistons guard Jaden Ivey (not pictured), who injured his left leg against the Orlando Magic in the fourth quarter at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: Lon Horwedel-Imagn Images

'I Want to be a Part of Winning' – Milwaukee Bucks’ New Guard is Excited to Play for the Team Next Season

Originally posted on Hardwood Heroics | By Jordan Samar | Last updated Aug 14, 2025 9:09 AM ET

One of the key moves the Milwaukee Bucks made this summer was acquiring Cole Anthony, who signed with the team after reaching a buyout agreement with the Memphis Grizzlies following the Desmond Bane trade.

Anthony is excited about the new opportunity he has with the Milwaukee Bucks, especially after Damian Lillard was cut. He made it clear he hopes to help the team win another NBA championship.

“I remember that whole week, it was just crazy,” Anthony told Jason Beede of the Orlando Sentinel. “I’ve been here (in Orlando) five years, haven’t played for another team, was drafted here, so it’s something for me that definitely is bittersweet and I’m going to miss it.”

Jan 5, 2025; Orlando, Florida, USA; Orlando Magic guard Cole Anthony (50) runs up the floor against the Utah Jazz at Kia Center. Mandatory Credit: Russell Lansford-Imagn Images

“I look at it as a great opportunity to enter another team where they have a playoff pedigree and a championship pedigree,” he continued. “They’ve won a ‘chip there. I just want to get in there, contribute, and do whatever I can for the team. I want to be a part of winning.”

Milwaukee Bucks could be a better defensive team this season, claims analyst

According to John Schumann of NBA.com, the Milwaukee Bucks could be a better defensive team this season after they cut Damian Lillard this offseason, although the same can’t necessarily be said on offense.

Mar 4, 2025; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) and guard Damian Lillard (0) react after defeating the Atlanta Hawks at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images

“The Bucks were much better in 767 minutes with Antetokounmpo on the floor without Lillard (plus-11.0 points per 100 possessions) than they were in 1,326 minutes with the two stars on the floor together last season,” Schumann stated.

“Lillard’s departure should, overall, give them a chance to return to the top six on defense. Offense could be a struggle, especially if the Bucks don’t score on the break or on second chances,” he added.