Bucks Zone

Weekly Review: Giannis Antetokounmpo to miss 2023 FIBA World Cup

Greece’s loss is the Milwaukee Bucks' gain.

Jonas Panerio

© Michael McLoone-USA TODAY Sports
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Greece’s loss is ultimately the Milwaukee Bucks’ gain. After weeks of speculation and anxious moments for Greece’s men’s national basketball team, the two-time NBA MVP finally announced that he would not be participating in the upcoming tournament in Manila, Philippines, as he has yet to fully recover from the knee procedure he underwent not long after the Bucks’ season concluded.

Here are five stories involving the Bucks from last week that you may have missed:

1. Giannis Antetokounmpo announces he will not play for Greece in the upcoming World Cup

In a lengthy post on his social media accounts, the “Greek Freak” announced that his body was not ready for the grind just yet.

“After months of work and multiple meetings with medical staff, it is clear that I am not ready to compete in the level that I need to be to participate in the World Cup. This was not a choice but my only option in ensuring I get back to the level of basketball I have worked so hard to achieve so far in my career. I am extremely disappointed in this outcome, but this was a decision made with the medical staff. I’m going to continue to push myself to be ready for the next time my name is called,” Giannis said.

2. Giannis Antetokounmpo gets a player rating of 96 in NBA 2K24

Every year, players and video game enthusiasts alike wait with bated breath for the release of the latest NBA 2K game. This year, Giannis Antetokounmpo is one of the highest-rated players, with a 96 rating.

3. Wisconsin Herd hires former NBA veteran Beno Udrih as its new head coach

A familiar face returns to Milwaukee to coach the Bucks’ G League affiliate, the Wisconsin Herd. This development came to be as former point guard Beno Udrih has been tapped as the team’s new head coach. Udrih’s role is crucial as he’ll be the one to help develop young talents such as Chris Livingston and Andre Jackson, Jr.

4. Report: The Milwaukee Bucks will play the New York Knicks on Christmas Day next season

The Bucks will be spending Christmas in New York City as a report by Shams Charania has them taking on the New York Knicks during the NBA’s five-game Christmas Day showcase.

5. Yakima College honors MarJon Beauchamp with jersey retirement

MarJon Beauchamp received incredible recognition from Yakima Valley Community College as they immortalized his jersey number. YVC retired the No. 13 jersey, making Beauchamp, a 6-foot-7 forward, the first player in the school's history to receive this honor. 

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Jonas Panerio
JONAS PANERIO