On January 23, Giannis Antetokounmpo found himself suffering from a strained calf after the Milwaukee Bucks’ close loss against the Denver Nuggets. It was the second time this season that Antetokounmpo missed significant time with a calf strain and contributed to Milwaukee’s troubles early in the season.
But on Monday night, in a clash against the Boston Celtics, Antetokounmpo returned to action. While the Bucks still couldn’t put up much of a fight against the red-hot Celtics, ultimately losing by 27 points, 108-81, the fact that Antetokounmpo returned to action and had 19 points and 11 rebounds in 25 minutes of play is a good sign for Milwaukee — especially when, before the trade deadline, it looked like Giannis might have made his final appearance for Milwaukee in some time. Had played the game.
After the game, Antetokounmpo admitted to not making things After straining his body so hard, it all became easier for him, much to his and Bucks’ dismay.
“I’m just stubborn… I just have to be smart. I’m not old, but I’m definitely old. It’s tough when you deal with a lot of soft tissue injuries. I feel like I’ve been playing with losses all year,” Antetokounmpo said on Twitter (formerly @ohnohedidnt24) via Twitter.
Giannis on dealing with his injuries: “I’m just stubborn… I just have to be smarter. I’m not old, but I’m definitely bigger. It’s tough when you deal with a lot of soft tissue injuries. I feel like I’ve been playing with a deficit all year.” pic.twitter.com/ZnBlzi4IyN
– Oh no, he didn’t (@ohnohedidnt24) 3 March 2026
Giannis Antetokounmpo, Bucks face all-important crossroads
The Bucks being uncompetitive is very frustrating for Antetokounmpo, who wants to compete year after year. Milwaukee finally retained their franchise cornerstone, but it looks like his days with the team are numbered.
Milwaukee was so weak in its return game that only three players scored in double figures – Antetokounmpo, Ousmane Dieng and Bobby Portis. Ryan Rollins and Kevin Porter Jr.’s outing was a nightmare. Even Giannis went 7-18 from the field – an uncharacteristically poor field goal percentage for him.
With the offseason now upon us, it’s now or never for the Bucks to try to convince the franchise’s all-time great player to stay.
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