Bucks Star Giannis Antetokounmpo Ruled Out Against Magic

Milwaukee will be without its superstar forward due to right calf injury management.

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Milwaukee Bucks will be without star forward Giannis Antetokounmpo for Sunday's game against the Orlando Magic due to right calf injury management. Antetokounmpo had recently returned from a 15-game absence due to a calf strain, but the team is now holding him out again. The Bucks will also be missing several other key players, including guard Kevin Porter Jr. and forward Taurean Prince.

Why it matters

The Bucks are fighting to stay in the playoff race in the Eastern Conference, and Antetokounmpo's absence is a significant blow to their chances. The team has struggled with injuries all season, and this latest setback could make it even harder for them to climb the standings and secure a postseason berth.

The details

Antetokounmpo had returned to the lineup in the Bucks' last three games, averaging 23.3 points, 8.3 rebounds, 4.7 assists, and 1.7 steals. However, the team has decided to hold him out against the Magic as a precautionary measure due to his recent calf injury. In addition to Antetokounmpo, the Bucks will also be without guard Kevin Porter Jr. (right knee synovitis) and forward Taurean Prince (neck surgery).

  • Antetokounmpo had recently missed 15 straight games after suffering a calf strain on January 23.
  • He returned to the lineup on March 2 against the Celtics.

The players

Giannis Antetokounmpo

A superstar forward for the Milwaukee Bucks who is one of the best players in the NBA.

Kevin Porter Jr.

A guard for the Milwaukee Bucks who is dealing with a right knee injury.

Taurean Prince

A forward for the Milwaukee Bucks who is recovering from neck surgery.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

The Bucks will need to find a way to win without their superstar forward, as they continue to fight for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.

The takeaway

Giannis Antetokounmpo's latest injury setback is a significant blow to the Bucks' playoff hopes, as they struggle to stay afloat in a crowded Eastern Conference race. The team's depth will be tested as they try to navigate the final stretch of the season without their star player.