The Milwaukee Bucks have secured Cole Anthony as a point guard option ahead of the 2025-26 NBA season, according to Shams Charania. The 25-year-old guard is expected to finalize a one-year contract with the Bucks after a Saturday buyout from the Memphis Grizzlies.
Anthony’s move comes after he was part of a multi-player trade this summer between Memphis and the Orlando Magic, a deal that notably sent Desmond Bane to the Grizzlies.
Strengthening the Bucks’ Backcourt After Key Departures
Milwaukee’s signing addresses a critical backcourt gap after the team waived Damian Lillard to make room for signing Indiana forward Myles Turner. The anticipated starting five for the Bucks includes Kevin Porter Jr., Gary Trent Jr., Kyle Kuzma, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Turner. Anthony is expected to play a valuable role coming off the bench.
Cole Anthony’s Career Performance and Recent Challenges
Anthony has spent five seasons with Orlando, averaging 12.5 points, 3.8 assists, and 4.3 rebounds per game. His peak came during the 2021-22 season, when he averaged 16.3 points and 5.7 assists. However, his playing time has decreased over the last three seasons as he took on a spot-starter role.
Reflecting on his form last season, Anthony admitted to struggles on the court and recognized the professional challenges involved.
I mean, I’ve been playing like dog shit,
Anthony said.
It’s not really that much to it. [I] wasn’t playing that well, me and (Magic coach Jamahl Mosley) had a conversation. He keeps it a buck with me, I’m gonna keep it a buck with him. And I mean, this is what happens. It’s a business, man.
—Cole Anthony
The Trade and Its Impact on Orlando’s Direction
Anthony was the only player retained by the Orlando Magic’s president of basketball operations, Jeff Weltman, from the group he originally approved for the team. His trade to Memphis signaled a shift in the franchise’s future plans.
Bucks’ Roster Moves Reflect Ambitions to Retain Giannis Antetokounmpo
The Bucks are reorganizing their team to maintain the support of star player Giannis Antetokounmpo, who is under contract through the 2027-28 season. When asked about his future with Milwaukee, Antetokounmpo expressed a positive, yet non-definitive outlook.
Probably, he said.
We’ll see … probably. I love Milwaukee.
—Giannis Antetokounmpo
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why does Cole Anthony wear 50?
A. He chose the number 50 for his jersey this season to pay tribute to his father, Greg, who had that number during most of his 11-year NBA career.
Q. What happened with Cole Anthony?
A. After five years with the Magic, Anthony was traded to the Grizzlies on June 15. The Magic also included Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, four unprotected first-round picks, and a 2025 draft pick, receiving Desmond Bane in return.