The Bucks are bringing back Thanasis Antetokounmpo, Giannis’ older brother, the team announced Sunday.
Thanasis signed a one-year deal worth $2.9 million, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania. The 33-year-old forward is making his return after missing all of last season with a torn Achilles tendon.
He’s already back in action, currently suiting up for the Greek National Team at EuroBasket.
The 6-foot-7 forward hasn’t exactly been a major contributor on the court. In his last season with Milwaukee (2023-24), he appeared in just 34 games off the bench, averaging less than a point per game in limited minutes.
Throughout his NBA career, Thanasis has averaged just 2.4 points and 1.6 rebounds in 198 games.
But his presence might be more valuable than his stats suggest.
The timing of Thanasis’ return is particularly interesting given the swirling rumors about his superstar brother potentially wanting out of Milwaukee.
Back in May, Charania reported that Giannis was “open-minded” about playing elsewhere. The speculation continued throughout the summer.
“Sources tell me there’s still nothing set in stone about whether Giannis Antetokounmpo will stay in Milwaukee or whether he will be leaving. And so, he’s continuing to evaluate his future,” Charania said last month.
The two-time MVP has apparently been asking one key question: “Can I win a championship with this roster?”
“He wants to win a second championship,” Charania added.
After months of uncertainty, it seems Giannis has made his decision – at least for now. According to Charania, a source close to the team confirmed Sunday that the Greek superstar will stay in Milwaukee to start the 2025-26 season.
Giannis has spent his entire 12-year career with the Bucks, averaging an impressive 30.4 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 6.5 assists per game last season.
With Thanasis now signed, the Bucks have reached 15 players on guaranteed contracts – the regular-season limit. This could spell trouble for Andre Jackson Jr., who the team acquired on draft night in 2023.
Jackson has an $800,000 guarantee on his $2.2 million contract, which becomes fully guaranteed if he makes the opening night roster.
Teams can carry up to 21 players during the offseason and preseason (including three two-way players), but must trim down to 15 standard contracts for the regular season.
