In a stunning announcement that has left fans and the basketball world reeling, Milwaukee Bucks head coach Doc Rivers revealed in a press conference just minutes ago that superstar forward Giannis Antetokounmpo has made the difficult decision to temporarily step away from basketball.
The news comes amid growing speculation over Giannis’s physical and mental well-being following the Bucks’ early playoff exit and an offseason filled with uncertainty and personal reflection.
Doc Rivers Delivers the Shocking News
Speaking to reporters during the team’s preseason media availability, Coach Rivers addressed what had been a tightly guarded matter behind the scenes:
“After long conversations with Giannis and the front office, he has decided to take a step back from the game—for now. This isn’t retirement, and it’s not disciplinary. It’s a personal decision. He’s asked for space to regroup, reset, and focus on some things that matter deeply to him right now.”
The announcement left many in the media room visibly stunned, with reporters immediately taking to social media to share the breaking news. According to Coach Rivers, Giannis’s decision came after several weeks of private discussions, where the two-time MVP expressed concerns about burnout, long-term health, and a desire to spend more time with family.
Giannis Issues Statement
Shortly after Coach Rivers’ announcement, Giannis Antetokounmpo released a heartfelt statement via his representatives:
“Basketball has been my life, my passion, and my escape. But sometimes, even the strongest need to pause. This is not goodbye, it’s just ‘see you soon.’ I’m stepping away to focus on my mental, emotional, and physical well-being—and to be with the people who matter most to me. I love the game, I love Milwaukee, and I will return stronger than ever.”
He did not give a specific timeline for his return, though team sources suggest it could be a matter of weeks or months depending on how he progresses during his time off.
Fan Reactions Pour In
Across Milwaukee and the NBA fandom, reactions have ranged from disbelief to overwhelming support.
On X (formerly Twitter), hashtags like #ComeBackGiannis and #WeStandWithGiannis quickly began trending nationwide. Fans expressed their admiration for his courage in speaking openly about the need for a break in a league where mental and emotional wellness often takes a back seat to physical performance.
Milwaukee fan Tyler Banks posted:
“Giannis gave us everything. If he needs to step away, we’ve got his back. He’s human, too. Respect.”
Others were more concerned about the implications for the Bucks’ upcoming season. With Giannis absent, the team’s chances in the highly competitive Eastern Conference take a significant hit. Some speculated whether the franchise had seen signs of this coming, particularly with the sudden offseason trade rumors and reports of internal locker room frustrations.
What This Means for the Bucks
This news puts additional pressure on stars like Damian Lillard and Khris Middleton, who will now have to carry the team’s leadership mantle as the new season approaches. General Manager Jon Horst emphasized that the organization fully supports Giannis’s decision and will not rush his return.
“Giannis is family. We support him 100 percent. We will give him all the time and resources he needs.”
Coach Rivers added, “He’s doing what’s right for him. That’s the mark of a real leader.”
A Larger Conversation in Sports
Giannis’s decision continues a growing trend among elite athletes prioritizing mental and emotional health. Stars like Naomi Osaka, Simone Biles, and even NBA peer Kevin Love have all stepped back from competition in recent years, opening an important dialogue around athlete wellness.
For now, Bucks Nation will wait patiently, hoping their franchise cornerstone returns healthy, rejuvenated, and with the same drive that made him one of the most dominant forces the NBA has ever seen
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