Thanasis Antetokounmpo is back with the Milwaukee Bucks after stepping away due to a knee issue that required surgery late in the 2023-24 season. The 33-year-old combo forward resumed competitive action with Greece, who are competing under coach Vassilis Spanoulis at EuroBasket 2025, and his return to Milwaukee was confirmed this week. A Bucks reunion appeared on the club’s radar via a Bucks-linked social account, and later reports from Shams Charania cited a one-year, fully guaranteed contract worth about $2.9 million. The deal also ensures Giannis Antetokounmpo will begin the season with Milwaukee.
In his first official action since being medically cleared, the Athens native has helped Greece open EuroBasket Group C with three straight wins, delivering energy on both ends of the floor. He’s averaging 3.3 points, 2.3 rebounds, 1.3 steals, 1.0 assist and 0.3 blocks per game, showcasing the two-way impact that made him a familiar rotation piece during his prior Bucks tenure.
Thanasis’ return reunites the brothers on the floor. He previously played for the Bucks from 2019 through 2024, a span highlighted by the 2021 NBA championship. Drafted by the New York Knicks in 2014 with the 51st pick, he later found a longer-running role in Milwaukee, contributing alongside Giannis to the franchise’s success. The two continue their on-court partnership, now carrying their sustained collaboration from the international stage back into NBA competition.
What this means for Milwaukee: the signing adds veteran depth and defensive versatility to a forward rotation that benefits from Antetokounmpo’s energy and edge. A one-year, fully guaranteed deal gives the Bucks a low-risk option to evaluate fit with the current roster, while signaling a continued commitment to a core that has proven capable of elevating the team in high-stakes moments.
Bottom line: Thanasis Antetokounmpo’s season-long return to Milwaukee, paired with his ongoing contribution to Greece, reinforces a dynamic duo dynamic and brings a seasoned, energetic presence back to the Bucks’ lineup as they pursue another deep playoff run.