In a monumental moment for both the Milwaukee Bucks and NBA fans alike, the Bucks organization has officially announced that Marques Johnson, the legendary forward and longtime face of the franchise, will be returning to the team in 2026—this time, not as a player or broadcaster, but as a co-owner.
The groundbreaking news was unveiled at a press conference earlier today at Fiserv Forum, where current Bucks ownership, including Marc Lasry and Wes Edens, welcomed Johnson back into the fold, marking a new chapter in the franchise’s storied history.
“Coming Full Circle”
Johnson, 69, called the opportunity a “full-circle moment” in his remarks.
“Milwaukee gave me a platform, a purpose, and a place to grow—not just as a player, but as a person,” Johnson said. “To now return in this capacity, with a chance to help shape the future of the team I love, is beyond anything I ever imagined.”
He added that he intends to be “hands-on” in his role and will focus on community outreach, player development, and enhancing the organization’s legacy of winning.
A Legendary Career
Drafted third overall by the Bucks in the 1977 NBA Draft, Johnson quickly made his mark. Known for his dynamic scoring ability, versatile defense, and high basketball IQ, he averaged 21.0 points and 7.5 rebounds per game over seven seasons in Milwaukee. A five-time NBA All-Star and one of the originators of the term “point forward,” Johnson’s influence stretched far beyond the stat sheet.
His No. 8 jersey was retired by the Bucks in 2019, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest to ever wear the green and cream.
Ownership Group’s Vision
Bucks co-owner Wes Edens called Johnson’s return “a powerful symbol of what this franchise stands for.”
“Marques represents the best of what it means to be a Buck: leadership, excellence, and a deep connection to the community,” Edens said. “Bringing him in as a co-owner ensures that those values remain at the core of everything we do moving forward.”
Marc Lasry echoed the sentiment, stating that Johnson’s addition to the ownership team reflects a commitment to inclusive leadership and honoring the franchise’s roots.
What This Means for the Future
Johnson’s new role is expected to bring both basketball insight and cultural value to the organization. Sources within the franchise suggest that Johnson will also play a key part in the Bucks’ 2026 50th anniversary celebrations, where his return will serve as a symbolic bridge between the team’s storied past and its ambitious future.
This announcement also comes at a time when NBA franchises are increasingly welcoming former players into ownership roles, promoting diversity and leveraging the unique perspectives that only former athletes can provide.
Fan Reaction
Fans across social media erupted with excitement upon hearing the news.
“Marques Johnson was the reason I fell in love with the Bucks,” wrote one user on X (formerly Twitter). “To see him come back as an owner? Man, it just feels right.”
Looking Ahead
As the Bucks gear up for the 2025–26 season, this announcement injects a sense of legacy and purpose into the organization. With the return of a franchise icon in a leadership role, the team looks poised to build on recent successes while remaining grounded in the spirit that first made Milwaukee a basketball city.
For Marques Johnson, the game has come full circle—not just in highlight reels, but in boardrooms where the future of the franchise is shaped.
