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Bucks Rookie Bogoljub Markovic Reveals Preferred Position for Milwaukee, Excites Milwaukee Fans With Versatility, Confidence, and Team-First Mentality for 2025.

When the Milwaukee Bucks selected Bogoljub Markovic in the second round of the 2025 NBA Draft, reactions ranged from curious optimism to cautious skepticism. Now, just a few weeks into his first official training camp, the 6-foot-10 Serbian forward has already begun reshaping expectations—starting with a clear declaration about where he sees himself fitting in: the power forward position.

Markovic’s confident assertion and team-oriented mindset are quickly turning heads across the organization and among Bucks fans, sparking early enthusiasm about what he might bring to one of the NBA’s perennial contenders.

Markovic Stakes His Claim at the Four Spot

“I feel most natural at power forward,” Markovic said during media availability at Bucks training camp in Milwaukee. “It’s where I can use my length, my shot, and my instincts to help the team win. But if the coaches need me somewhere else, I’ll be ready for that too.”

That simple yet confident statement was enough to create a buzz among fans and analysts looking to understand how the 20-year-old prospect could fit into the Bucks’ rotation. With superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo occupying the same position, the idea of Markovic earning meaningful minutes might seem unlikely. But given his skillset—marked by floor spacing, intelligent movement, and defensive versatility—his role could evolve rapidly.

Stretch Four With a European Edge

Markovic spent the last two seasons playing professionally in Serbia’s top league with Partizan Belgrade, where he averaged 12.3 points and 6.1 rebounds while shooting 38.7% from three-point range. His size and mobility make him a natural fit for modern NBA schemes that prize big men who can both shoot and switch defensively.

“He reminds me of a young Dario Saric, but with a quicker release and better lateral movement,” one European scout said before the draft. “His feel for the game is well beyond his years.”

Those traits were evident during his summer league stint, where he averaged 13.4 points, 5.6 rebounds, and nearly 2 assists per game. More impressively, he showed an ability to move fluidly off the ball, rotate quickly on defense, and serve as a connector in the half-court offense—traits Milwaukee has long sought to supplement its star-heavy rotation.

Adrian Griffin Offers High Praise

Bucks head coach Adrian Griffin didn’t hesitate when asked how Markovic was performing in early workouts.

“He’s locked in,” Griffin said. “You don’t always see that with young guys. He’s asking the right questions, communicating well on defense, and playing unselfishly. I like that he’s assertive about his preferred position, but even more so that he’s willing to be flexible.”

That flexibility could prove crucial as the Bucks explore different lineup combinations. With Bobby Portis, Brook Lopez, and Giannis already in the frontcourt rotation, Markovic may need to slide between the four and five—or even guard wings when necessary—to earn consistent minutes. But his commitment to playing wherever he’s needed has impressed Milwaukee’s staff.

Learning From the Best

Markovic has taken full advantage of being around Giannis Antetokounmpo, not just in practice but in casual moments before and after sessions. He calls Giannis “the ultimate role model,” and says he’s soaking up lessons every day.

“He does everything at full speed, full effort,” Markovic said. “I watch how he prepares, how he talks to teammates, how he stays positive. That’s the level I want to get to.”

Giannis, in return, praised Markovic’s work ethic and attitude.

“Bogoljub’s got a great head on his shoulders,” Giannis said. “He doesn’t talk too much, but he listens. He competes. And I’ve seen him knock down big shots in scrimmages. He’s not afraid of the moment.”

The bond between the two European forwards could become one of the more intriguing subplots in Milwaukee this season. Giannis, now a two-time MVP and NBA champion, has embraced the role of mentor in recent years. For Markovic, there may be no better guide into NBA stardom.

A Future Starter? Or Immediate Contributor?

General manager Jon Horst is high on Markovic’s potential, noting that the rookie could force his way into the lineup sooner than expected.

“We drafted Bogoljub with the idea that he could grow with this team, but he’s shown us that he might be ready to help now,” Horst said. “He fits how we want to play—positionless, unselfish basketball where everyone can shoot, move, and defend.”

In today’s NBA, where big men are expected to guard the perimeter and stretch defenses, Markovic’s game is tailor-made for success. If he continues shooting well and holding his own on defense, he could become a staple in Milwaukee’s second unit—or even part of a closing lineup in certain matchups.

Don’t be surprised if Markovic ends up spelling Giannis for stretches or even playing next to him in smaller lineups. The idea of two long, agile forwards who can pass, switch, and score from multiple levels is tantalizing.

Bucks Fans Already Taking Notice

In just a few weeks, Markovic has become something of a cult favorite among Bucks fans online. Social media posts showing his three-point shooting, smooth footwork, and charismatic smile have circulated widely.

One viral clip from Bucks summer camp showed him drilling five consecutive threes in a practice drill, then walking off with a smirk as teammates cheered.

“He looks like the steal of the draft,” one fan posted on Reddit.

Another wrote on Twitter, “Bogoljub and Giannis in the same lineup? Sign me up. Stretch fours are BACK.”

The rookie has responded with humility and humor, posting, “Trying to earn your trust, Milwaukee! Let’s get it. 🦌 #FearTheDeer #BogTime”

Eyes on the Long Term

While the immediate buzz is exciting, Markovic knows there’s still plenty of work ahead. His English is strong, but he continues taking language classes to improve communication. He’s learning the playbook, adjusting to the NBA pace, and getting used to a grueling 82-game season schedule.

“My goal is to get a little better every day,” he said. “I’m not focused on being a star. I want to be the guy who does the little things—spacing, rebounding, passing, helping my teammates. That’s how you earn minutes in this league.”

That mindset aligns perfectly with Milwaukee’s championship ethos: do your job, trust the system, and play for one another.

What’s Next for Markovic?

As the preseason approaches, Markovic is likely to receive extended minutes in exhibition games. Those performances will go a long way in determining whether he cracks the regular-season rotation or begins his NBA journey in a developmental role.

Even if the latter happens, the Bucks are confident that he’ll develop quickly, thanks to his maturity, professional background, and willingness to embrace coaching.

“There’s no ego there,” assistant coach Terry Stotts said. “He just wants to help the team win. That’s rare in any player, let alone a 20-year-old rookie.”

If Markovic continues on his current trajectory, he could be a major X-factor for the Bucks—not just in 2025, but for years to come.

Bogoljub Markovic may not have been a household name on draft night, but he’s quickly becoming a fan favorite in Milwaukee. His declaration to play power forward speaks to a clear vision of who he is as a player—but his willingness to serve any role the Bucks ask of him speaks even louder.

With a sharp shooting touch, high basketball IQ, and a team-first mentality, Markovic fits seamlessly into what the Bucks are building. Whether he plays 15 minutes a night or earns a bigger role over time, Milwaukee fans can rest assured: their rookie forward is ready to contribute, grow, and help the Bucks continue chasing championships.

And if his early performance is any indication, the NBA may be witnessing the beginning of something special.

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