The NBA investigates the Bucks following Giannis' words about his health

The NBA has opened an investigation into the management of the physical state of Giannis Antetokounmpo by the Milwaukee Bucks and possible contradictions in the information provided to the league.

The case revolves around conflicting versions between the player and the franchise: while Antetokounmpo insists he is ready to compete, the team argues that they do not have medical clearance or sufficient guarantees for his return.

According to information given to the league, Antetokounmpo himself has expressed to both Milwaukee and the NBA his desire to return to play. However, the organization states they do not believe he is physically prepared or that his intention to reappear is firm at this time.

The Greek, who has not played since the injury suffered on March 15 against Indiana, was clear before the loss to the Boston Celtics: he publicly stated he is available "right now" to play games.

Context: injury, elimination, and suspicions

The power forward has already missed ten consecutive games due to a left knee hyperextension and bone contusion. In the days following the injury, it was reported that the Bucks preferred him not to play again this season, something the player allegedly opposed.

The situation also arises in a delicate context: Milwaukee missed the playoffs for the first time since 2016, fueling debate about a strategic end-of-season management.

In this regard, the National Basketball Players Association recently criticized the franchise, suggesting their actions could affect the league's competitive integrity.

The NBA Enters the Scene

As part of the process, the league has already interviewed both the player and team members and medical services. The goal is to clarify if there have been violations in the player participation policy.

Antetokounmpo, visibly upset, made a strong statement: he said that preventing him from competing feels "like a slap in the face."

Rivers Avoids Taking Sides

Coach Doc Rivers was also questioned about the controversy but chose to stay out of it. He acknowledged there are "two versions" of the case but insisted that coaches do not have decision-making power in these situations.

At 31 years old, Antetokounmpo has played only 36 games this season, the lowest number in his career. Throughout the season, he has faced multiple physical problems, including calf, groin, and knee injuries.

Meanwhile, the player has continued with his pre-game routine at home, progressively increasing the intensity of his training sessions, which team insiders interpret as an attempt to prove he is ready to return.

With five games still to play in the regular season, the case remains open and under the NBA's scrutiny.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, La NBA investiga a los Bucks tras las palabras de Giannis sobre su salud