The Milwaukee Bucks had their Media Day on Monday without their All-Star forward Giannis Antetokounmpo. The Greek Freak isn’t having problems with the organization. But Bucks’ general manager Jon Horst confirmed that Antetokounmpo had tested positive for the COVID-19 virus. The NBA star is still in Greece and still participated in the team’s media day via Zoom.
Following the media day, the Bucks will begin their training camp for the 2025-26 NBA season without their franchise player. Antetokounmpo talked to the media online and informed the reporters that he’s looking forward to being in Milwaukee “in a few days.”
Bucks insider Doug Russell reported on the two-time MVP’s health on X.
“GM Jon Horst announces that Giannis has contracted COVID and is not at Media Day in person. Added that Giannis hopes to be able to have a media availability via Zoom,” Russell posted.
During his time with the reporters, Giannis gave a positive update on his condition. According to him, he’s waiting to test negative on the virus before travelling and doesn’t want anyone to be at risk because of him.
“I’m just waiting for a negative test, so I can leave my house and get on a plane and travel,” the nine-time All-Star said. “I don’t want to put anybody at risk.
Antetokounmpo also expressed his desire to be with his teammates and was disappointed that he couldn’t be with them.
“I’m definitely disappointed — bummed out that I’m not able to be there with the team and get this ball rolling. As a leader, I don’t feel good about this, but at the end of the day, this is life.”
Giannis and Bucks brass offer different takes on the NBA star’s commitment
Giannis Antetokounmpo wants to maximize his prime and contend for another NBA championship. After winning in 2021, the Bucks have only been past the first round of the playoffs once. Due to the team’s difficulties, Milwaukee has lost in the first round three times in a row, raising questions about the star player’s devotion.
Wes Edens, the Bucks owner, spoke to the media on Monday. He revealed that he had a chat with the 2021 Finals MVP, who allegedly reiterated his loyalty to the team. Edens said that he talked to Antetokounmpo in June about it.
“I had a great conversation with Giannis in June, and he made it clear that he is committed to Milwaukee and he likes having his family here.”
The nine-time All-NBA player told the reporters that he couldn’t recall discussing the issue with Edens when it was brought up.
“I cannot recall that meeting.”
Bucks owner Wes Edens on Giannis Antetokounmpo’s future with the team:
"I had a great conversation with Giannis in June, and he made it clear that he is committed to Milwaukee and he likes having his family here."
Giannis just over 1 hour later:
"I cannot recall that meeting."
— Underdog NBA (@UnderdogNBA) September 29, 2025
Although Giannis hasn’t requested a trade, he could be running out of patience with the Bucks.
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Reign also writes NBA and WNBA news updates on Sportskeeda. He started as a feature writer for AirAlamo, an NBA website that covers the San Antonio Spurs. Some of his work can also be seen on Valley of the Suns, a Phoenix Suns-centric website, where he served as a contributing writer.
