Guard Cole Anthony Nears Milwaukee Bucks Deal After Grizzlies Buyout

Cole Anthony, the former UNC standout and five-season Orlando Magic guard, has finalized a contract buyout with the Memphis Grizzlies and is expected to sign a one-year deal with the Milwaukee Bucks after clearing waivers. Anthony was part of a blockbuster trade that sent him, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, and multiple first-round picks to Memphis in exchange for Desmond Bane, but he never played a game for the Grizzlies before agreeing to the buyout. The move clears salary space for Memphis to extend Jaren Jackson Jr.'s contract, while the Bucks add a versatile guard who can provide depth and scoring off the bench. Anthony averaged 12.5 points, 3.8 assists, and 4.3 rebounds during his time in Orlando, with his best college season averaging 21.2 points and 4.6 assists at UNC. In Milwaukee, he will compete for playing time in a restructured backcourt following Damian Lillard's departure, potentially contributing to the Bucks' championship ambitions. This swift transition highlights both teams' strategic roster adjustments during the 2025 free agency period.