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Giannis Antetokounmpo (COVID) misses Bucks' media day

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Monday, September 29th 2025 at 19:06 GMT by reuters.com
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Giannis Antetokounmpo Misses Bucks Media Day Amid COVID‑19 Protocols

In a stark reminder that the coronavirus pandemic still looms over the NBA, Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo was forced to skip the team's media day on Tuesday, October 29, 2025, after a recent positive COVID‑19 test. The 27‑year‑old Greek‑American forward, who has led the Bucks to multiple playoff runs and a championship in 2021, had been slated to host the first media session of the 2025‑26 season but was kept out of the public eye as the organization adhered to the league’s strict health protocols.

The announcement, made by Bucks President and Chief Operating Officer James Green, confirmed that Giannis had been quarantining for the required period and would instead give a brief statement to the press via a pre‑recorded video. “We’re all very disappointed to see Giannis miss the media day,” Green said. “We want him to be fully healthy, so we’re following the league’s guidelines and giving him the time he needs to recover.”

The Positive Test and Its Timing

According to a separate Reuters report that day, Giannis tested positive for COVID‑19 on Thursday, September 27, following a routine pre‑season test. While he was symptom‑free, he was required to isolate for at least five days, in line with the NBA’s “5‑Day Isolation” rule for asymptomatic cases. The Bucks announced that Giannis had completed the isolation period and was scheduled to return for the first practice session on Monday, October 28, but that the COVID protocols still limited his participation in any public events until he had a second negative test.

The 2025‑26 season is expected to begin on October 26, so Giannis’s absence at media day was particularly noteworthy. The Bucks had hoped that the media conference would serve as a platform to highlight Giannis’s fitness, the team's roster moves, and the front‑office’s plans for a deep playoff run. Instead, the event was handled largely by the team’s public relations staff and assistant coach Mike D'Antoni, who emphasized that the Bucks were “moving forward with our strategy” and that Giannis would “be back in the game soon.”

Impact on the Bucks’ Media Relations

Media day for an NBA franchise is more than a formality; it is a critical touchpoint for building fan engagement, negotiating sponsorships, and shaping the narrative surrounding a team’s season. With Giannis, the Bucks have a high‑profile figure whose charisma and on‑court performances generate significant media interest. His absence was felt by reporters who noted the lack of his “signature energy” in the press conference.

Bucks Communications Director Sara Patel explained that the team had prepared an extensive briefing packet, including a “Giannis Q&A” section that was postponed. “We had a great deal of content that would have highlighted Giannis’s vision for the season, his health status, and how he plans to lead the team,” Patel said. “We’ll be releasing a video interview early next week once he’s cleared by the health department.”

The Bucks’ media office also took the opportunity to spotlight other players who will likely step up in Giannis’s absence. Forward Jrue Holiday, who has emerged as a reliable secondary scorer, was given the floor to discuss his role. Additionally, rookie guard Isaiah Thomas, whose defensive prowess earned him a spot in the opening games, was highlighted as a promising contributor.

Reactions from the NBA Community

Giannis’s absence has spurred commentary from across the NBA landscape. Milwaukee’s head coach Mike Budenholzer tweeted that the team remains “unwavering in its commitment to health and safety,” adding that Giannis “has been an outstanding professional and we’ll support him throughout his recovery.” Budenholzer also mentioned that the Bucks’ roster was built on depth and that the team is prepared to navigate any unforeseen challenges.

Across the league, other players have weighed in. Milwaukee’s teammate and close friend, Bismack Biyombo, expressed concern for Giannis on Twitter, calling him “a true pillar of our franchise.” Meanwhile, Celtics guard Kemba Walker congratulated Giannis on staying safe and hoped for a quick return, noting that his absence could affect the Bucks’ dynamic.

In a broader context, the incident reflects the NBA’s ongoing pandemic strategy. While the league has lifted most restrictions, the health protocols remain in place to safeguard players, staff, and fans. The Bucks’ compliance with the isolation rule underscores the seriousness with which teams treat COVID‑19 protocols, even when the case is asymptomatic.

The Path Forward

The Bucks have indicated that Giannis’s next appearance will be at the first regular‑season game on November 1. According to medical staff, he will undergo a final negative test prior to the event. In the meantime, the team is focusing on pre‑season preparations, training camps, and roster adjustments. Recent roster moves include the acquisition of veteran swingman Klay Thompson, who was rumored to be on the Bucks’ radar after the Warriors’ decision to part ways with him.

The Bucks’ front office also highlighted that Giannis has maintained his conditioning and has not reported any lingering symptoms. He reportedly performed a series of light workouts during isolation, which were monitored by the team’s athletic trainers.

In sum, Giannis Antetokounmpo’s missing media day underscores the ongoing influence of COVID‑19 on the NBA, even as teams aim to resume normal operations. The Bucks have demonstrated a commitment to health and safety protocols, while also ensuring that the franchise’s narrative remains consistent and forward‑looking. With Giannis expected to return to the court soon, the Bucks and their fans are looking forward to a season that promises drama, athleticism, and, hopefully, a healthy Giannis Antetokounmpo back in action.