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“He Had a Fire That He Wanted to Let Out” - Milwaukee Bucks Star Had Help From Former All-Star Kevin Garnett 19 Apr 29, 2025; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) during game five of the first round for the 2024 NBA Playoffs against the Indiana Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

Milwaukee Rolls Out Training Camp Minus Giannis Amid COVID Recovery

Originally posted on Hardwood Heroics | By Reign Amurao | Last updated Sep 30, 2025 9:43 AM ET

The Milwaukee Bucks had their Media Day on Monday without their All-Star forward Giannis Antetokounmpo. The Greek Freak isn’t having problems with the organization. But Bucks’ general manager Jon Horst confirmed that Antetokounmpo had tested positive for the COVID-19 virus. The NBA star is still in Greece and still participated in the team’s media day via Zoom.

Following the media day, the Bucks will begin their training camp for the 2025-26 NBA season without their franchise player. Antetokounmpo talked to the media online and informed the reporters that he’s looking forward to being in Milwaukee “in a few days.”

Bucks insider Doug Russell reported on the two-time MVP’s health on X.

“GM Jon Horst announces that Giannis has contracted COVID and is not at Media Day in person. Added that Giannis hopes to be able to have a media availability via Zoom,” Russell posted.

During his time with the reporters, Giannis gave a positive update on his condition. According to him, he’s waiting to test negative on the virus before travelling and doesn’t want anyone to be at risk because of him.

“I’m just waiting for a negative test, so I can leave my house and get on a plane and travel,” the nine-time All-Star said. “I don’t want to put anybody at risk.

Antetokounmpo also expressed his desire to be with his teammates and was disappointed that he couldn’t be with them.

“I’m definitely disappointed — bummed out that I’m not able to be there with the team and get this ball rolling. As a leader, I don’t feel good about this, but at the end of the day, this is life.”

Giannis and Bucks brass offer different takes on the NBA star’s commitment

“He’s Going to Accept That Challenge” - Milwaukee Bucks Star Giannis Antetokounmpo Predicted to Win MVP Next Season 5 Apr 10, 2025; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) reacts in the second quarter against the New Orleans Pelicans at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-Imagn Images

Giannis Antetokounmpo wants to maximize his prime and contend for another NBA championship. After winning in 2021, the Bucks have only been past the first round of the playoffs once. Due to the team’s difficulties, Milwaukee has lost in the first round three times in a row, raising questions about the star player’s devotion.

Wes Edens, the Bucks owner, spoke to the media on Monday. He revealed that he had a chat with the 2021 Finals MVP, who allegedly reiterated his loyalty to the team. Edens said that he talked to Antetokounmpo in June about it.

“I had a great conversation with Giannis in June, and he made it clear that he is committed to Milwaukee and he likes having his family here.”

The nine-time All-NBA player told the reporters that he couldn’t recall discussing the issue with Edens when it was brought up.

“I cannot recall that meeting.”

Bucks owner Wes Edens on Giannis Antetokounmpo’s future with the team:

"I had a great conversation with Giannis in June, and he made it clear that he is committed to Milwaukee and he likes having his family here."

Giannis just over 1 hour later:

"I cannot recall that meeting."

— Underdog NBA (@UnderdogNBA) September 29, 2025