Giannis Antetokounmpo rejoined the Milwaukee Bucks on Saturday, taking part in training camp for the first time after missing time due to a COVID-19 infection he contracted in Greece.
While his return was welcomed by teammates and coaches, the two-time MVP is still working his way back to full strength.
Head coach Doc Rivers explained that Antetokounmpo participated only in non-contact drills during his first day back.
“He said he’s going to need a good three days,” Rivers noted, signaling that the forward will ease into a heavier workload as he rebuilds his conditioning.
For Antetokounmpo, the illness left lingering effects that he is still trying to shake.
“I think it took a toll on my body. I’m not feeling 100 percent yet physically,” he admitted. “Just taking it day by day, getting back in shape. I was able to do some 5-on-0, run up and down a little bit. Tomorrow I’ll be a little better.”
Rivers also highlighted the silver lining of Giannis’ absence during the early part of camp, suggesting that it gave the Bucks a chance to experiment with lineups and prepare for stretches when their superstar is off the court.
“The key to our team every year is the minutes when Giannis is off the floor,” Rivers said. “So, we’ve been working on that. And so maybe that’ll help us in the long run.”
While Antetokounmpo is not yet fully back, his gradual return marks an important step for Milwaukee as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Giannis Antetokounmpo Rejoins Bucks Training Camp, Participates In Non-Contact Work https://t.co/V9KbXMMCXh
— RealGM (@RealGM) October 4, 2025
