TITLE: NBA Investigating Bucks as Giannis Antetokounmpo Disputes Team’s Decision to Sideline Him
SLUG: nba-investigates-bucks-giannis-dispute
CONTENT:
The NBA is examining how the Milwaukee Bucks have managed Giannis Antetokounmpo’s injury status after the club told league investigators the forward declined to take part in 3-on-3 scrimmages required in his return protocol, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania.
Antetokounmpo has informed investigators he believes he is “available to play” despite the team’s position, sources said.
The two-time MVP has not appeared in a game since March 15, when Milwaukee listed him with a left knee hyperextension and bone bruise. He has been limited to 36 games this season.
Player Pushes Back
Speaking with reporters on Friday, Antetokounmpo voiced frustration over being kept off the court.
“I’m available to play right now,” he said. “I don’t know what game is being played right here, I just don’t wanna be a part of it.”
He added that being held out “is like a slap in my face.”
Scope of the Inquiry
League officials have interviewed Antetokounmpo, team executives and medical staff to determine whether Milwaukee violated the NBA’s player participation policy.
The Bucks, who will miss the playoffs for the first time in 10 years, face heightened scrutiny as they head into the offseason.
Source: Hoops Wire
