The Milwaukee Bucks have continued to make significant offseason moves, including decisions around jersey retirements. Although star forward Giannis Antetokounmpo praised former Bucks center Brook Lopez and expressed that Lopez’s jersey No. 11 should be retired, the team has opted to let another player wear that number in the upcoming season. This development directly impacts the status of the Giannis Antetokounmpo jersey number 11 narrative.
Transition of Number 11 Jersey to New Guard Gary Harris
After Brook Lopez left the Bucks to join the Los Angeles Clippers in free agency, the No. 11 jersey became available. Lopez, a Southern California native and key player for Milwaukee, spent seven seasons with the Bucks, averaging 13 points, over five rebounds, and more than two blocks per game. Despite his legacy, Milwaukee has assigned the jersey to newly signed guard Gary Harris for the 2024-25 season.
NBA numerologist Etienne Catalan confirmed that Harris will wear No. 11 next year. Harris, who was acquired through a two-year deal, comes from the Orlando Magic, where he played the last four seasons. His most recent season was underwhelming, with averages that included just three points, one rebound, and less than an assist per game, shooting below 40 percent from the field.
Implications for Brook Lopez’s Legacy and Bucks’ Jersey Tradition
Lopez’s contributions during his tenure with the Bucks earned him widespread respect, with many fans supporting the retirement of his jersey as a tribute to his impact on the franchise. His solid defensive presence and scoring ability were key parts of Milwaukee’s lineup for years. However, the decision to permit Harris to wear No. 11 suggests that the Bucks will not retire the number at this time, indicating a break from tradition.
This choice highlights the balancing act between honoring past players and accommodating current roster needs. For Antetokounmpo, who publicly advocated for Lopez’s jersey retirement, it may represent a divergence from his expectations, yet the team moves forward maintaining flexibility with jersey numbers.
What This Means for the Bucks Moving Forward
As the Bucks continue to reshape their roster and prepare for the next season, allowing Gary Harris to wear No. 11 shows a focus on present team dynamics over past gestures. This decision may influence future discussions about which player legacies the franchise formally honors through jersey retirements. For fans and players alike, it signals that jersey numbers remain active symbols tied closely to current team composition.
With the 2024-25 NBA season approaching, all eyes will be on how Harris fits into the Bucks’ plans and whether Giannis Antetokounmpo or the franchise will revisit the idea of retiring No. 11 in later years. The Bucks’ approach to jersey traditions reflects their evolving outlook as they aim to stay competitive and respectful of their history.