Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo has been ruled out of Saturday's game against the Atlanta Hawks due to a left ankle sprain, marking his 31st absence this season. The two-time MVP was initially listed as questionable on the injury report for injury management of his right calf before the team announced the ankle issue.

The injury occurred during the Bucks' 112-105 loss to Miami on Thursday night, according to coach Doc Rivers. This latest setback continues a frustrating pattern for Antetokounmpo, who hasn't played on consecutive days since returning from a right calf strain on March 2. The Bucks are playing back-to-back games, facing the Indiana Pacers at home on Sunday.

This represents the highest number of games Antetokounmpo has missed in any season during his 13-year NBA career. The Milwaukee Bucks are now forced to navigate the remainder of the season without their franchise player, who has been dealing with multiple injuries throughout the year. Antetokounmpo's durability has been a cornerstone of his career, making this season's injury woes particularly notable for both the player and the organization.