Milwaukee Bucks First-Round Pick Bogoljub Markovic Set to Remain in Serbia, Focus on Development Before Making NBA Debut in Future.

The Milwaukee Bucks’ front office continues to take a long-term view of roster building, particularly when it comes to international prospects. The latest example? Serbian big man Bogoljub Markovic, the Bucks’ 2025 first-round pick, who will not immediately join the NBA roster and is instead set to remain in Serbia for at least another season to continue his development.

Markovic, a 6-foot-11 forward-center with a dynamic skill set, was selected by Milwaukee with the 22nd overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. Despite his high selection and impressive upside, the Bucks have opted to take a measured approach with their newest prospect, allowing him to stay with Serbian club KK Mega Basket, where he has blossomed into one of Europe’s most exciting young talents.

This “draft-and-stash” strategy is not uncommon, especially for international players with raw but elite potential. And for the Bucks, a team that still harbors championship ambitions led by Giannis Antetokounmpo, the move allows them to maximize Markovic’s future impact while maintaining roster flexibility in the short term.

A Smart Development Play

Bucks General Manager Jon Horst spoke on the decision following the draft, saying, “We see Bogoljub as a core part of our long-term plans. But right now, the best thing for him—and for us—is to give him another year in a strong professional environment where he’ll continue to get minutes, grow physically, and refine his game.”

Markovic averaged 14.2 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks per game in the Adriatic League last season, showcasing elite mobility, an improved perimeter shot, and shot-blocking instincts that earned him comparisons to younger versions of Kristaps Porziņģis and Al Horford. Despite his youth, his IQ and versatility stood out in pre-draft workouts and private interviews.

“He’s got tools that just can’t be taught,” one NBA scout said. “Length, coordination, footwork, soft touch—he’s a unicorn in the making.”

The Bucks’ coaching staff was reportedly very high on Markovic’s upside and lobbied for his selection over more polished, college-based prospects. Yet with Milwaukee pushing for deep playoff runs, they believe it’s better for both parties if he’s allowed to play major minutes abroad, rather than sit on the bench in the NBA.

Balancing Now and Later

Milwaukee’s current rotation is built around veterans like Giannis Antetokounmpo, Khris Middleton, and Brook Lopez, with Bobby Portis providing depth in the frontcourt. Markovic would likely struggle for playing time in that group, especially considering the physical demands and defensive expectations placed on young big men in the league.

By keeping Markovic in Serbia, the Bucks gain a valuable roster spot and some salary cap relief, while also giving their investment the chance to grow at his own pace.

“Not every 19-year-old is ready for the NBA spotlight, and that’s okay,” Horst continued. “We’ve had success with developmental pathways in the past. Our goal is to make sure that when Bogoljub arrives, he’s ready to contribute.”

Markovic’s Response

For his part, Markovic has embraced the Bucks’ plan. “I’m honored to be drafted by Milwaukee,” he said in a statement. “This is a great team with great players, and I want to be ready when I get there. Right now, I’ll keep working, learning, and getting stronger. I want to make the most of this opportunity.”

His maturity is another reason the Bucks felt confident in taking this route. Those close to Markovic say he’s laser-focused on improving his game and studies film religiously—both NBA games and EuroLeague matchups.

In an interview with Serbian media, Markovic added, “I watched the Bucks a lot—Giannis is one of my favorite players. To learn from guys like him one day is a dream. But until then, I will keep preparing for that day.”

Global Strategy, Local Payoff

Milwaukee’s strategy fits into a broader trend in today’s NBA, where teams are increasingly leveraging international development to their advantage. With the globalization of basketball and improved coaching infrastructure in Europe, players like Markovic can continue to grow in top-tier competitions while avoiding the pressures of NBA transition at too young an age.

It also helps that the Bucks have seen this model succeed before. Giannis Antetokounmpo, the team’s most iconic international player, took time to develop after arriving from Greece and eventually became a two-time MVP. Though Markovic will stay overseas initially, the franchise hopes to provide him with a similarly patient developmental roadmap—just from afar.

Bucks head coach Chris Finch, who has experience coaching internationally himself, praised the decision.

“I’ve seen what a good European system can do for young talent,” Finch said. “We’ll be in constant contact, providing support, feedback, and video analysis. He’s part of the family now—we just want him fully ready when he joins us.”

Fan Reactions and Expectations

While some fans initially expressed confusion over not seeing their new first-rounder in Summer League or training camp, many have come to appreciate the logic behind the move. Bucks social media channels have been filled with highlights from Markovic’s performances overseas, and many fans now view him as a “hidden gem” whose arrival will feel like a new addition when he joins in a future season.

“This is the smart play,” one Reddit user wrote. “We don’t need him now. But when Lopez retires, and Portis is older? Markovic slides right in.”

The Bucks organization has assured supporters that they are heavily invested in Markovic’s development and will continue to monitor his performance closely. There’s a strong possibility he could join the NBA roster in 2026 or 2027, depending on how quickly he progresses physically and adjusts to higher levels of competition.

The Bigger Picture

Milwaukee’s decision to draft and stash Bogoljub Markovic is a testament to its long-range planning and belief in international scouting. It’s a sign that the front office isn’t just focused on the next playoff push—but also on laying the foundation for sustained success in the post-Giannis era, whenever that may come.

By allowing Markovic to grow in a familiar environment without the immediate pressure of NBA expectations, the Bucks are hoping he can arrive in Milwaukee more prepared, more confident, and more capable of helping them compete at the highest level.

And if Markovic lives up to even a fraction of his immense potential, this patience could pay off in a big way—one that Bucks fans and executives alike will look back on as a brilliant move.

The NBA is filled with stories of rushed prospects who failed to adapt or flamed out too early. The Bucks are ensuring Bogoljub Markovic doesn’t become one of them. With time, trust, and the right environment, Milwaukee’s Serbian investment might just become one of the league’s next breakout stars.