Milwaukee Bucks D-League basketball team to call Oshkosh home

OSHKOSH -- The Milwaukee Bucks on Wednesday, February 8th pulled the wraps off a new D-League team -- which will call Oshkosh its home.

The Bucks will become the 20th NBA club to own and operate a D-League franchise as the minor league grows to a record 25 teams next season.

Co-owner Wes Edens said the Bucks are demonstrating the team's commitment to building stronger ties to fans throughout Wisconsin.

"This is incredibly important day for our franchise and an exciting day for basketball fans across the state of Wisconsin. We couldn't be more pleased to be here today and announce that the Milwaukee Bucks have purchased a D-League team and have decided to play in Oshkosh," Peter Feigin, Bucks president said.

According to the Bucks' Fox Valley Basketball website, the new D-League team will begin play in the 2017-18 season.

As part of the deal, Fox Valley Pro Basketball led by Greg Pierce will be constructing a new 3,500-seat arena for the new minor league team near Lake Winnebago. The Oshkosh Common Council has approved plans for the arena.

With the purchase, the Bucks become the 20th NBA team to own and operate an NBA D-League affiliate while the NBA D-League grows to a record 25 teams for next season.

As for the name of the team -- the Bucks are taking suggestions on their website.

CLICK HERE to read frequently asked questions about the new D-League team.

Monitor FOX6 News and FOX6Now.com for updates on this developing story.