Maggette finally back in the game for Bucks

Standing on the sideline during the first week of training camp can be frustrating.

But Milwaukee Bucks forward Corey Maggette was transformed from an observer to a willing participant during the two practice sessions on Friday and Saturday, before the team was given the day off Sunday by coach Scott Skiles.

It's particularly important for the 6-foot-6 Maggette to be involved, since he is learning Skiles' system after being acquired in a June trade with the Golden State Warriors.

"It's been going pretty decent," said Maggette, who is recovering from arthroscopic surgery on his left ankle on July 1.

"I'm still a little stiff and don't have a lot of explosion, but just to be out here and move a little bit and help out the team. It's been a great sequence for me."

He was hampered by his ankle but still managed to play in 70 games with the Warriors, while averaging nearly 30 minutes a game.

Skiles was encouraged with Maggette's progress as the veteran was able to take part in a good portion of the last two sessions, although he was held out of full contact.

"He's definitely getting closer," said Skiles. "He's able to do a little more each day and have no setbacks.

"Those are the things pro athletes go through when they have some sort of injury and surgery. At some point, he'll start playing full court and at some point he'll go off his left leg and try to dunk one and just try to get it all back."