NBA Analyst sparks sending Giannis Antetokounmpo to young Western Conference contenders 18 Nov 10, 2025; Dallas, Texas, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) reacts against the Dallas Mavericks during the first quarter at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

Shams confirms timeline for Giannis Antetokounmpo’s return after groin strain

Originally posted on WI Sports Heroics | By Nathan Yasis | Last updated Nov 18, 2025 10:29 PM ET

As Giannis Antetokounmpo left Monday’s game against the Cleveland Cavaliers with a groin injury, the immediate reaction around the Bucks was understandable concern. The uncertainty didn’t last long, though, as Shams Charania of ESPN provided clarity on the situation and offered a clearer picture of the timeline for Milwaukee’s franchise centerpiece.

Shams Charania reports that Antetokounmpo is dealing with a “low-grade groin strain” and is expected to be sidelined for roughly one to two weeks. Given the initial worries, this update is viewed as relatively encouraging, with Charania noting that the Bucks recognize how essential he is to everything they hope to accomplish.

“Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo sustained a low-grade left groin strain and will miss 1 to 2 weeks, sources tell ESPN. Positive outcome after tests Tuesday for Antetokounmpo, who is the only player in the NBA averaging 30 points and 10 rebounds,” the veteran NBA insider posted on X (formerly Twitter).

Giannis Antetokounmpo’s worrying injury

Bucks enter another uncertain stretch with Giannis sidelined 4 Nov 17, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) walks on the court in the first quarter against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-Imagn Images

Although Antetokounmpo was listed on the Bucks’ injury report prior to Monday’s contest with a left knee concern, it carried a “probable” tag, which made it seem minor. He still suited up and played 13 minutes before heading to the locker room, but head coach Doc Rivers struck a worried tone afterward as he detailed how the 30-year-old reacted throughout the night.

“I don’t know what it is. It doesn’t look good right now,” said the Bucks head coach.

The Greek Freak finished his brief outing against Cleveland with 14 points, five rebounds, four assists and four turnovers in just 13 minutes before the injury cut his night short.

The Greek Freak in early MVP form

How the Milwaukee Bucks Are Overcoming Financial Sabotage From the Damian Lillard Move 1 Nov 4, 2025; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) reacts after making a basket against the Toronto Raptors during the first half at Scotiabank Arena. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images

Antetokounmpo has opened the year in his MVP form, producing 31.2 points, 10.8 rebounds and 6.8 assists per game while finishing 62.9 percent of his attempts and knocking down half of his looks from long range.

Entering Monday’s action, he ranked fourth in the NBA in scoring and seventh in rebounding.

The Bucks currently hold an 8-7 record and must navigate the next stretch without Antetokounmpo for one to two weeks, compounded by injuries to Kevin Porter Jr. and Taurean Prince. Milwaukee takes on the Philadelphia 76ers Thursday night, with their star forward potentially returning next Wednesday against the Miami Heat in an NBA Cup contest.

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

More must-reads: