Cole Anthony is ready for a new chapter with the Milwaukee Bucks, but he admits leaving the Orlando Magic was not easy.

Speaking to the Orlando Sentinel, Anthony recalled the moment he learned about the trade that eventually led to his move to Milwaukee. The 6-foot-2 guard, drafted 15th overall by the Magic in 2020, said he was stunned when Magic president Jeff Weltman informed him of the deal.

“I remember my agent called me; I remember talking with Jeff, and I was just like, ‘Dang, is this real?’” Anthony said. “I’ve been here five years, haven’t played for another team, was drafted here, so it’s something for me that definitely is bittersweet and I’m going to miss it.”

On June 15, Anthony was traded along with Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, four unprotected first-round picks, including the 16th pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, and a 2029 first-round pick swap to the Memphis Grizzlies for Desmond Bane. He never suited up for Memphis, reaching a contract buyout agreement before being waived on July 12.

Just four days later, the Bucks signed Anthony, adding him to a roster that features Giannis Antetokounmpo. The 2021 NBA champions are looking to make another deep playoff push after a second-round exit last season.

“I look at it as a great opportunity to enter another team where they have a playoff pedigree and a championship pedigree,” Anthony said. “They’ve won a ‘chip there. I just want to get in there, contribute and do whatever I can for the team. I want to be a part of winning.”

Over his five seasons in Orlando, Anthony averaged 12.5 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game while shooting 41.9% from the field and 34.5% from three-point range.