Milwaukee secures a 125-108 win, but Giannis Antetokounmpo remains sidelined as offseason decisions loom
Category: Sports
The Milwaukee Bucks closed out their home slate of the 2025-26 NBA season with a 125-108 victory over the Brooklyn Nets at Fiserv Forum on April 10, 2026. The win, though satisfying, comes with an air of uncertainty as the franchise faces potential coaching changes and the future of star player Giannis Antetokounmpo hangs in the balance.
Antetokounmpo, who has been out for 14 straight games due to a hyperextension and bone bruise in his left knee, was ruled out just a day before the game. His absence has been a major talking point for the Bucks, who are currently sitting at a disappointing 31-49 record, battling the Chicago Bulls for the best possible lottery odds.
In front of a crowd that exceeded expectations, the Bucks showcased impressive performances from several players. Cormac Ryan, in his first NBA start, set a career high with 28 points, shooting 6-for-9 in the first quarter alone. Ryan’s explosive start helped the Bucks build a 38-24 lead early in the game, and he finished strong, solidifying his place in the lineup as the season concludes.
Meanwhile, AJ Green was the standout star of the night, setting a franchise record with 11 three-pointers and scoring a total of 35 points. This performance places him within reach of Ray Allen's Bucks record of 229 three-pointers in a season, as he heads into the final regular-season game against the Philadelphia 76ers on April 12. The Bucks collectively shot 50% from beyond the arc, hitting 24 of 48 attempts.
"It was a fun night for us, especially considering everything that’s been going on this season," said Green after the game. "We just wanted to put on a show for the fans who came out to support us." His enthusiasm was echoed by Ryan, who expressed gratitude for the opportunity to start and contribute significantly to the team’s success.
On the other side, the Nets, who have struggled throughout the season with a 20-60 record, came into the game on a six-game road losing streak. They had lost their previous match against the Indiana Pacers, 123-94, where E.J. Liddell scored 26 points. Facing the Bucks, the Nets were unable to capitalize on their opponent's struggles, as they were outmatched in nearly every aspect of the game.
The Bucks' victory provided a morale boost and kept them in contention for the best lottery odds. Currently, the Bucks have a 50.8% chance to secure the No. 9 pick in the upcoming NBA Draft Lottery, which will take place on May 10 in Chicago. The stakes are high, as the team that finishes with the 10th-worst record will have no chance of landing the No. 9 pick, making every game count as the season winds down.
As the Bucks look ahead, the future of Antetokounmpo remains uncertain. The two-time MVP has previously expressed concerns about the team’s direction and competitiveness, leading to speculation about a potential trade. Reports indicate that he has communicated his doubts to team management, hinting at a desire for a fresh start if the franchise cannot bolster its roster effectively.
"I’m healthy enough to play," Antetokounmpo stated earlier this week, indicating his frustration with the situation. His desire to return to the court is evident, but the team’s management has decided to prioritize his long-term health over immediate gameplay.
With the season nearing its end, the Bucks are also contemplating a coaching change as part of their offseason evaluations. The disappointment of consecutive first-round playoff exits has left many questioning the current coaching staff's effectiveness. As the franchise looks to rebuild and reestablish itself as a contender, every decision made during the offseason will be examined.
In terms of injuries, the Bucks have been significantly affected this season, with several key players sidelined. Alongside Antetokounmpo, Bobby Portis is out due to a wrist sprain, and Gary Trent Jr. is dealing with an oblique injury. The Nets, too, have faced injury woes, with multiple players listed as day-to-day or out, including Nic Claxton and Noah Clowney.
As the Bucks prepare for their last regular-season game, the focus will be on solidifying their roster for the future. AJ Green’s impressive shooting and Cormac Ryan’s breakout performance could signal a brighter path ahead for the team. The Bucks will need to capitalize on their young talent if they hope to contend next season.
The Bucks' final game of the season against the 76ers will be broadcast locally on FanDuel Sports Network Wisconsin, with tip-off scheduled for 8 p.m. ET on April 12. to see if the team can end the season on a high note, as the offseason promises to bring both challenges and opportunities for renewal.
In the meantime, the Bucks are left to ponder their future, with the weight of Antetokounmpo’s potential departure casting a long shadow over the franchise. As the NBA Draft approaches, the decisions made in the coming weeks could define the next chapter for this storied organization.