Jae Crowder re-signs with the Milwaukee Bucks

Jae Crowder will run it back with the Bucks.

© Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports

Veteran forward Jae Crowder is returning to the Milwaukee Bucks, bolstering a formidable frontline with his veteran smarts, rugged defense, and timely three-point shooting. Things between Crowder and the Bucks appeared strained, especially after he barely played in Milwaukee's first-round loss to the Miami Heat in this year's NBA Playoffs. However, it appears that the Bucks' winning culture and deep playoff runs were enough to keep Crowder in the fold.

Puzzling stint

The Bucks acquired the 32-year-old from the Phoenix Suns after a long pursuit. He was expected to have a key role in Mike Budenholzer's squad, especially in the Playoffs, where he has amassed an incredible amount of experience after playing in a whopping 111 post-season games. Crowder played in 18 regular season games for the Bucks and averaged 6.9 points and 3.8 boards.

However, come playoff time, Crowder's role diminished. He suited up in just four games, playing an average of 10 minutes and scoring less than two points per game. The former Marquette star was not fielded during the series-deciding Game 5. This led to Crowder questioning his fit with the Bucks.

"I've never been in a situation like that," said Crowder. "Eleven years. Check my resume. I've been playing. I've always been playing. I'm very confused as to why I was brought here. I don't know my purpose here and why I was brought here."

Jae Crowder is re-signing with the Bucks on a one-year deal, per B/R's @ChrisBHaynes pic.twitter.com/EiF3Lzgx6J

— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) July 1, 2023

Winning culture

The Bucks' commitment to winning and the culture they've cultivated in the locker room have appealed to Crowder, who is looking for a chance to compete for and win an NBA title after falling short twice in NBA Finals stints with the Miami Heat and the Phoenix Suns.

Crowder is expected to stabilize the bench and even spot start during times when Giannis Antetokounmpo needs to rest. His ability to guard multiple positions and hit clutch shots will be crucial for the Bucks and their championship aspirations.

Reminder: When asked if he'd like to be back with the #Bucks Jae Crowder said, “I would, because in the locker room it’s a great group of guys who puts work first & we have fun after that. I can work in that type of environment." (@CJC9BOSS)https://t.co/k0h4sQFWrS

— Jim Owczarski (@JimOwczarski) June 28, 2023