Image Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Thanasis Antetokounmpo Re-Joins Milwaukee Bucks on a $2.9 Million Contract Following Successful Comeback From Achilles Injury

Forward rejoins Milwaukee Bucks

Image Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Thanasis Antetokounmpo is returning to the Milwaukee Bucks. According to Shams Charania, the 33-year-old forward has signed a guaranteed one-year, $2.9 million contract with the franchise.

Antetokounmpo previously spent five seasons in Milwaukee from 2019 to 2024, carving out a role off the bench. His journey took an abrupt turn in May 2024, when he tore his Achilles tendon and was sidelined for the entire 2024–25 campaign. The injury required surgery and an extensive recovery process, eliminating any chance of an appearance that season.

Thanasis Antetokounmpo is signing a guaranteed one-year, $2.9 million deal to return to the Milwaukee Bucks, sources tell ESPN. Antetokounmpo played for Bucks from 2019-24. This also means after a summer of exploring options, Giannis is staying in Milwaukee to start the season.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) August 31, 2025

Before the setback, he had featured in 34 games during the 2023–24 campaign, offering the same defensive output and versatility that earned him respect from teammates and coaches alike. The Bucks, despite his absence, maintained interest in his leadership qualities and bench presence, ultimately moving to secure his return.

Charania also reported that Antetokounmpo’s re-signing strengthens Milwaukee’s ties with two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo. The dynamic between the brothers has long been recognized as influential for the franchise

Thanasis Antetokounmpo Completes Achilles Comeback

Interestingly, Thanasis first hinted at the move himself. On his official X account, he posted the words “I’m back” alongside a photograph of Giannis and Brook Lopez holding the 2021 championship trophy.

The cryptic message quickly caught attention, and the Bucks’ own social media team responded. Shortly afterward, the team confirmed the agreement on their official platform.

I’m back. pic.twitter.com/2L4VrngACi
— T. Antetokounmpo (@Thanasis_ante43) August 31, 2025

Antetokounmpo’s professional path has been unconventional. Drafted 51st overall in 2014 by the New York Knicks, he struggled for minutes in their rotation. His brief stint included two games in the 2015–16 season, while most of his time was spent with the Westchester Knicks in the D-League, now known as the G League.

Now 6-foot-7 and entering the later stages of his career, Antetokounmpo has completed his rehabilitation and returned to playing shape, even representing Greece at EuroBasket this summer. His comeback sets up another chapter in Milwaukee.