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Young Bucks big learning from Giannis Antetokounmpo
Young Bucks big learning from Giannis Antetokounmpo 1 Oct 6, 2025; Miami, Florida, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Pete Nance (35) drives to the basket against Miami Heat center Kel’El Ware (7) during the fourth quarter at Kaseya Center. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

The Milwaukee Bucks have consistently built their roster around versatile big men to complement Giannis Antetokounmpo , and Pete Nance knows he needs to follow that model if he wants to earn a bigger role. After signing a two-way contract last season, Nance spent the summer with the team, learning from other players at his position. Now, he’s focused on carving out his own spot in the rotation.

In an interview with Dalton Sell, Nance reflected on his summer and shared insights he gained from spending time in Milwaukee’s deep frontcourt rotation.

“Especially as Bobby [Portis] and Myles [Turner] goes, those are two guys who space the floor and kind of do things that I’m going to need to do to really break through and become a standard contract player in the NBA as far as spacing, rim protection, switch-ability,” said the Bucks big.

Pete Nance’s place in the Bucks


Young Bucks big learning from Giannis Antetokounmpo 2 Sep 29, 2025; Milwaukee, WI, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Pete Nance (35) poses for a picture during Milwaukee Bucks Media Day at the Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-Imagn Images

Nance spent the summer training alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo, Myles Turner, Bobby Portis, and Jericho Sims. Each brings a unique skill set and style of play, giving Nance a broad range of insights. For a 25-year-old seeking his first significant NBA opportunity, gaining experience from such a varied group is incredibly valuable.

Following in Giannis Antetokounmpo’s footsteps, Nance told Sell that he gained eight pounds of muscle over the summer. Giannis, who arrived in Milwaukee over a decade ago with a slender frame, went through one of the NBA’s most impressive physical transformations by putting on a massive amount of muscle. Nance won’t reach that level, but he is steadily building his physique.


Young Bucks big learning from Giannis Antetokounmpo 3 Apr 6, 2025; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Pete Nance (35) looks to pass against New Orleans Pelicans forward Jamal Cain (8) during the second half at Smoothie King Center. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images

Nance knows that his clearest path to a standard NBA contract is showing he can contribute on both ends of the floor. The opportunity is within reach.

In limited stints with the Bucks and their G League affiliate, the Wisconsin Herd, Nance has flashed skills that align with Milwaukee’s vision. He has size, length, shooting ability, and the potential to be a versatile defender. If he can put it all together consistently, the Bucks are likely to take serious notice.

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

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