The NBA has opened an investigation into the Bucks regarding potential violations of the league’s player participation policy, as well as possible inconsistencies surrounding the health status of Giannis Antetokounmpo, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania.
The league has already interviewed Antetokounmpo, team officials and medical staff, per the report.
According to Charania, the Bucks and Antetokounmpo have presented differing views. The team believes the star forward isn’t ready to return, while Antetokounmpo maintains he is healthy but hasn’t been cleared to play.
Speaking Friday, Antetokounmpo suggested there’s tension between himself and the organization.
“You know who you are dealing with,” he said, via The Athletic. “So for somebody to come and tell me to not play or not to compete, it’s like a slap in my face. So, I don’t know where the relationship goes from there.”
“I’m available to play… Right now. I’m available,” he added. “I don’t know what game is being played right here, I just don’t wanna be a part of it.”
Antetokounmpo has been sidelined since March 15 with what the team has described as a left knee hyperextension and bone bruise. He said Friday he has felt healthy for weeks.
The two-time MVP acknowledged the team’s long-term thinking but disagreed with the approach.
“What are you telling me? The next time I’m going to play basketball is October? Why? I don’t want to do that,” he said. “It’s almost like you waved the white flag… and I don’t do that.”
Milwaukee had previously discussed the possibility of shutting him down for the season, though Antetokounmpo was not on board with that plan.
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