Bucks’ Giannis Antetokounmpo Wanted To Return After Knee Injury, Was Told ‘Not Worth It’

Giannis Antetokounmpo wanted back in the game.

More specifically, the Bucks star said he attempted to return after appearing to hyperextend his knee during Sunday’s 134-123 win over the Pacers, but the team shut that idea down quickly.

“I wanted to get back in the game,” Antetokounmpo said, via The Athletic’s Eric Nehm. “They looked at me and said, ‘No, it’s not worth it.’”

The injury occurred late in the third quarter when Antetokounmpo landed awkwardly following a spin move and dunk. He remained in the game briefly before heading to the locker room and ultimately did not return.

Coach Doc Rivers said the team had not yet determined the exact nature of the injury.

“My guess is he hyperextended his knee, but I’m guessing,” Rivers said.

Antetokounmpo said he plans to take a wait-and-see approach rather than immediately undergo imaging.

“I’m just going to go back home, sleep, see how I feel tomorrow,” he said. “If I have discomfort, we’ll go from there.”

The two-time MVP has already battled injuries this season and has appeared in just 36 of Milwaukee’s 67 games.

Entering Sunday, Antetokounmpo was averaging 27.5 points, 9.7 rebounds and 5.4 assists.