When I saw the Bucks were bringing back Jericho Sims, my first reaction was, “Wait, really? That’s the move?” But the more I dug into it, the more it made sense. Sometimes, the best offseason signings aren’t the flashiest—they’re the ones that quietly fill a need and keep a contender’s foundation solid.
The Deal: Two Years, Player Option, and Some Real Security
Let’s get the basics out of the way: Sims is re-signing with Milwaukee on a two-year deal worth just over $5.2 million, with a player option for the second year. That’s a nice bump from the minimum, and for a guy who’s bounced between rotations and G League stints, it’s real job security.
Sims, 26, averaged 2.4 points and 4.9 rebounds in 15 minutes per game after coming over from the Knicks at last season’s trade deadline. Not exactly All-Star numbers, but he brought energy, rebounding, and a willingness to do the dirty work—something every contender needs off the bench.
Why the Bucks Made This Move
Milwaukee’s front office has been busy—waiving Damian Lillard to make room for Myles Turner, re-signing key role players, and trying to keep Giannis happy and in Milwaukee for the long haul. In that context, bringing back Sims is about stability. He’s not here to be a star; he’s here to be a reliable backup, especially with Turner now anchoring the starting five.
And let’s be honest: the Bucks’ bench got thin last year. When injuries hit, they needed guys who could step in, grab boards, and not kill the spacing. Sims fits that bill. He’s played 191 NBA games (37 starts) and even got his feet wet in the playoffs. That kind of experience matters more than fans realize.
Sims’ Perspective: More Than Just a Paycheck
For Sims, this deal is validation. After being drafted 58th overall in 2021 and bouncing in and out of Tom Thibodeau’s rotation in New York, he finally landed in a spot where he’s valued. The player option gives him some control over his future—if he breaks out, he can test the market again next summer. If not, he’s got another year locked in.
What to Watch: Role, Growth, and the Bucks’ Big Picture
Don’t expect Sims to suddenly become a 15-and-10 guy. But with Turner likely soaking up heavy minutes, Sims has a real shot to be the first big off the bench. If he can keep up the rebounding and stay out of foul trouble, he might even carve out a bigger role—especially if the Bucks want to keep Giannis fresh for another playoff run.
“Sometimes, the best moves are the ones nobody notices until April,” a Bucks insider told me last week. “Sims just fits what we need.”
Quick Stats Table
| Season (Team) | GP | MPG | PPG | RPG | FG% |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024-25 (Bucks) | 14 | 15.0 | 2.4 | 4.9 | — |
| Career (NYK/MIL) | 191 | 13.5 | 2.4 | 4.0 | — |
| Playoffs | 10 | 8.5 | 2.1 | 2.8 | — |
My Take: Quiet Moves, Big Impact?
Look, this isn’t the kind of signing that gets fans lining up for jerseys. But every contender needs glue guys, and Sims is the kind of player who can swing a playoff quarter just by grabbing a couple of tough rebounds. For the Bucks, it’s a low-risk, high-reward move—and for Sims, it’s a chance to finally show what he can do with a little trust and a defined role.
Not every offseason headline has to be about superstars. Sometimes, it’s the quiet deals that end up mattering most.
Free agent center Jericho Sims has agreed to a two-year deal with the Milwaukee Bucks, including a player option in the second season, sources tell ESPN. Milwaukee retains a lob threat big man in Sims, who played in a career high 53 games last season and all 5 playoff games. pic.twitter.com/l4BdgE8X5R
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 1, 2025
Sam, a dedicated blogger, has immersed himself in the world of content creation for the past five years. His journey reflects a profound passion for storytelling and insightful commentary. Beyond the digital realm, Sam is a devoted NBA enthusiast, seamlessly blending his love for sports with his writing pursuits.