Giannis Antetokounmpo Heads to Miami To Join New-Look Team

The Milwaukee Bucks are preparing for the 2025-26 NBA season with renewed determination after an early playoff exit, and Giannis Antetokounmpo has reaffirmed his loyalty to the team despite previous concerns about his future in Milwaukee.

The team is currently focused on training camp activities, with plans to shift their preseason preparation from Milwaukee to Miami ahead of an exhibition game against the Miami Heat scheduled for October 6 at the Kaseya Center.

Antetokounmpo will join training camp late after testing positive for COVID-19 in Greece, with Bucks head coach Doc Rivers confirming he will arrive just before the team flies to Miami.

Rivers explained that the decision to train in Miami was strategic, as it allows the team to acclimate in a warm-weather location before facing the Heat in their first preseason game, a scheduling preference he often follows.

This offseason, the Bucks have strengthened their roster by adding Myles Turner, Cole Anthony, Amir Coffey, and Gary Harris, with Turner's four-year, $108.9 million contract highlighting a major move to provide frontcourt support for Antetokounmpo, replacing Brook Lopez and contributing shooting and shot-blocking abilities.

The new players are intended to ease Antetokounmpo's role and enhance team performance, fostering optimism among fans and the organization for a more successful season.

During media day, Antetokounmpo expressed strong belief in the younger, energetic roster, describing the team as "full of dogs" who understand their roles and are committed to helping the team excel.

The Bucks will officially begin their preseason with the game against the Heat on October 6, marking the start of their campaign for the 2025-26 season.