Fri Oct 11 02:09:42 UTC 2024: ## Bucks Lose Preseason Opener to Pistons, Antetokounmpo to Debut Thursday
The Milwaukee Bucks fell to the Detroit Pistons 120-87 in their first preseason game on Sunday, despite building an early lead. Two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo sat out the game, but will make his preseason debut on Thursday against the Los Angeles Lakers.
Head Coach Doc Rivers, who is in his first year with the Bucks, confirmed that Antetokounmpo will gradually ramp up his playing time after Thursday’s game. Rivers, seemingly unaware of the usual practice of players sitting out the preseason opener, jokingly explained that Antetokounmpo is “ready to go” and that the team is excited to have him back in action.
The “Greek Freak” had another dominant regular season last year, averaging 30.4 points, 11.5 rebounds, and 6.5 assists per game. However, he was hampered by injuries during the playoffs for the second consecutive year. The Bucks, who finished third in the Eastern Conference last season, are hoping to make a deep playoff run with Antetokounmpo healthy and at full strength.
The Bucks will open their regular season on October 23rd, when they visit the Philadelphia 76ers.
First Piper 