Milwaukee Bucks young star Jabari Parker still has his sights set on a return in early 2018. Over the summer Parker set the target to be around the 2018 NBA All-Star Weekend and after a recent run with the Bucks G League affiliate Wisconsin Herd, his sights are still set on February.
If he still hopes to secure a huge five-year deal, or at least a new contract with the Bucks, Jabari Parker is going to get on the court as soon as he can without rushing back to the court. He’s shown flashes of greatness and progress but it seems like he’s the forgotten star as Giannis Antetokounmpo ascends.
Another practice session for @JabariParker…#FearTheDeer pic.twitter.com/FK6FXvWBKv
— Milwaukee Bucks (@Bucks) December 20, 2017
Luckily for Bucks fans, Parker is not focused on a contract, fitting with his new teammates or even being the same player he once was. He just wants to get back to the game after a young career full of setbacks.
Following comes from the Associated Press, courtesy of ESPN.
“Basketball is my sanctuary,” Parker said following a scrimmage at the Bucks’ practice facility. “I love that I’m getting the chance to play on the court again. That’s one blessing that I won’t take for granted.”
…
“I’m accepting of what I’ve been through,” Parker said.
He spoke with tempered optimism following Tuesday’s practice.
“I’m holding up really good,” Parker said.
Practicing with the Wisconsin Herd has allowed Parker to take part in full-court sessions, while the Bucks tend to conduct half-court practices at this point in the season given the team’s busy schedule.
“It gives him the opportunity to get up and down the court,” Bucks coach Jason Kidd said. “It also gives him the opportunity to go against different guys. Yesterday and today were positive.”
…
“If you change your game, you change your mentality,” he said. “If you live in fear, you live with stress and doubt.”
Parker expects to practice with the Herd again, possibly at the team’s facility in Oshkosh, about 90 miles northwest of Milwaukee. He is hoping to be ready for game action with the Bucks sometime in February.
“I’m at the end of the tunnel,” Parker said. “I’m seeing the light, and it’s really nice.”
