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Mar 5, 2025; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) reacts in the third quarter against the Dallas Mavericks at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-Imagn Images

Is Giannis Antetokounmpo Playing Tonight? Where to Watch Milwaukee Bucks vs Detroit Pistons Preseason Game

Originally posted on EssentiallySports
By Anuj Talwalkar | Last updated Oct 9, 2025 10:00 AM ET

After a summer gripped by Giannis Antetokounmpo trade rumors, the Bucks started in the right direction. They secured their cornerstone’s loyalty and opened the preseason with a commanding win against the Miami Heat. A major positive? It came without the Greek Freak, who missed the game because of an illness.

Notably, the two-time MVP suffered from a COVID-19 illness right before media day. Antetokounmpo couldn’t even appear in front of the media, resorting to a video press conference. But with the Detroit Pistons up next for the Bucks, will their dominant forward be ready to face them tonight? It’s still inconclusive.

Giannis Antetokounmpo has joined training camp, regularly upping his training intensity. Currently, he is listed as day-to-day. So his participation in tonight’s game depends on how Antetokounmpo feels a few hours before tip-off. Since it’s not a physical injury, the Bucks aren’t worried about risking his health.

With that being said, playing with depleted energy could lead to an unnecessary injury. Likewise, there’s a chance the Bucks could play their second preseason game without Giannis Antetokounmpo. It is a minor conundrum for Doc Rivers if Antetokounmpo misses a second game, delaying the team’s adaptation process.

Antetokounmpo has been particularly successful against the Detroit Pistons in his career. Over the last regular season games, he’s averaged 31 points, 10.7 rebounds, and 7 assists against them. If he does play, the Bucks will likely use him for a limited time. It’s only Antetokounmpo’s first game since EuroBasket 2025. Moreover, with him recovering from an illness, he will only participate in minimal proximity.

But if he does make his debut, where can the fans watch the game?

Where to watch the Bucks vs Pistons preseason game?

Similar to the Bucks, the Pistons started their preseason with a win. Even their team dynamics have shifted a little. They welcome a sharpshooter in Duncan Robinson from the Heat. Additionally, they also added to their scoring depth by signing Caris LeVert during the summer. With Cade Cunningham at the helm, the Pistons seem to be on the rise.

Likewise, there’s a lot of excitement around this team in the East. A battle against the Bucks could do good for their confidence, especially if Giannis Antetokounmpo plays. The preseason matchup will be available to stream on Fubo TV, which airs all the preseason games. Additionally, the NBA League Pass also allows fans to watch the live action.

Whether Antetokounmpo plays or not, the Bucks have a responsibility to develop synergy in the weeks leading up to preseason. Several teams have a talent advantage against them. And while Antetokounmpo knows competing will be “hard”, if the team is well connected on the floor, they can make something happen.

Who do you think wins tonight? Let us know in the comments below.

This article first appeared on EssentiallySports and was syndicated with permission.

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