Giannis Antetokounmpo Returns to Practice Despite COVID-19 Setback

MIAMI – Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo returned to practice on Saturday morning after missing the beginning of training camp due to a COVID-19 infection. He joined the team at Florida International University for drills.

“Obviously, I think it took a toll on my body,” Antetokounmpo said following practice. “I’m not feeling 100 percent yet, physically. Just take it day by day. Get back in shape.”

During the session, Antetokounmpo was able to participate in some five-on-zero drills and ran up and down the court but acknowledged the need to regain his conditioning.

“I have 18 days until the first game, so I think I’ll be fine,” he stated optimistically.

Bucks coach Doc Rivers indicated that more time would be necessary for Antetokounmpo to fully recover, noting that he will likely miss the preseason opener against the Miami Heat scheduled for Monday night.

<p“Wind; conditioning,” Rivers explained when asked about the delay. “He went from the Euro Basket, then took a week off, and right when he was about to start back up, he gets that. So now that’s two-and-a-half weeks, so that’s a lot of off time.”

Despite the setback, Antetokounmpo showed little concern about the upcoming regular season, which begins against the Washington Wizards on October 22.

“I know the time to accomplish (it),” he said. “The most important thing is that I’ve got to take care of my body and get back in shape.”

Rivers and general manager Jon Horst have discussed the team’s new strategy, which will center more around Antetokounmpo’s playmaking skills than ever before, a shift that hasn’t been seen since Jason Kidd was coaching the team.

“We can play fast. We’re fast, we’re athletes,” Antetokounmpo noted regarding the team’s potential. “We just gotta move the ball.”

As the Bucks prepare for the season, Antetokounmpo’s fitness and adaptation to the game strategy will be critical for the team’s success in the Eastern Conference this year.