Bucks' Giannis Sidelined at Least One Week with Knee Injury

Reigning MVP to be re-evaluated after suffering hyperextension and bone bruise

Mar. 17, 2026 at 10:50pm

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Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo has been diagnosed with a left knee hyperextension and bone bruise and will be re-evaluated in one week, sources tell ESPN. Antetokounmpo suffered the injury during Sunday's game against the Indiana Pacers.

Why it matters

Giannis is the centerpiece of the Bucks' roster and his health is crucial to the team's playoff aspirations. Any extended absence could significantly impact Milwaukee's chances of making a deep postseason run.

The details

Antetokounmpo left the game in the third quarter after landing awkwardly on a dunk attempt. He briefly remained in the game and even dunked again on the next possession, but was ultimately ruled out for the remainder of the contest. Antetokounmpo finished with 31 points, 14 rebounds and 8 assists in 30 minutes of action.

  • Giannis suffered the injury during the Bucks' game against the Pacers on Sunday, March 15, 2026.
  • He will be re-evaluated in one week from the date of the injury.

The players

Giannis Antetokounmpo

The Milwaukee Bucks' superstar forward and reigning NBA MVP.

Bobby Portis

A veteran forward for the Milwaukee Bucks who discussed the team's mentality after losing games.

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What they’re saying

“Being a pro every day is coming in and putting the work in. Literally, the only thing you can control is your work ethic and your attitude every day. As long as your work ethic and your attitude are good, then everything else that happens is just part of the journey. Everybody's journey is going to be different.”

— Bobby Portis, Milwaukee Bucks forward (YouTube)

“I'm just going to go back home, sleep, see how I feel tomorrow. If I have a little bit of discomfort, then I'll go from there. But as of right now, I'm not really bothered by it.”

— Giannis Antetokounmpo (EuroHoops.net)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This injury to Giannis is a significant blow to the Bucks, who are already struggling to maintain a playoff position in the Eastern Conference. The team will need to find a way to weather his absence and hope he can return to full strength in time for the postseason.