Steve Novak – Milwaukee Bucks: Veteran Forward’s Impact on Team Development in 2025
Steve Novak, a former NBA journeyman, has found a new home as a television analyst for the Milwaukee Bucks. The 6’10” forward, who played for nine different NBA teams over his career, brings a wealth of basketball knowledge to his current role. Novak’s connection to Wisconsin runs deep, having played college basketball at Marquette before the Houston Rockets selected him 32nd overall in the 2006 NBA Draft.
Novak’s NBA career spanned from 2006 to 2016, with stops in Houston, Los Angeles, Dallas, San Antonio, New York, Toronto, Utah, Oklahoma City, and finally Milwaukee. He established himself as a three-point specialist during his time in the league, particularly during his stint with the New York Knicks. Now, he provides insights and analysis for the team representing his home state.
The Brown Deer, Wisconsin native continues to contribute to basketball in the Milwaukee area, though in a different capacity than his playing days. His experience as both a Marquette Golden Eagle and Milwaukee Buck gives him unique perspective when analyzing games for the franchise that’s become a powerhouse in the Eastern Conference in recent years.
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Early Life and High School Career
Steve Novak, born on June 13, 1983, in Libertyville, Illinois, would develop his basketball skills in Wisconsin where his talent began to shine. His formative years set the foundation for what would become a notable basketball career.
Brown Deer High School Achievements
Novak’s basketball journey truly began at Brown Deer High School in Brown Deer, Wisconsin. During his junior year, he posted impressive numbers, averaging 22.2 points, 12.0 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game.
The lanky forward showcased his shooting touch early, a skill that would become his calling card in later years. Novak’s high school performance earned him recognition as one of the top prospects in Wisconsin.
By his senior year, Novak had developed into a legitimate Division I prospect. His recruitment ranking placed him at #57 nationally in the 2002 class, according to Basketball-Reference.
His high school success caught the attention of Marquette University, where he would continue his basketball journey alongside future NBA star Dwyane Wade. This connection formed at Marquette would create what the Bucks organization later described as “a forever bond” between the two players.
College Basketball at Marquette University
Steve Novak’s career at Marquette University established him as one of the program’s most lethal outside shooters while helping elevate the Golden Eagles on the national stage.
Marquette Highlights
Novak arrived at Marquette in 2002 and quickly became known for his exceptional shooting ability. During his four years with the Golden Eagles, he developed into one of the most prolific scorers in program history.
The 6’10” forward’s signature skill was his three-point shooting. Novak shot an impressive 46.1% from beyond the arc over his college career. His shooting form was textbook – quick release, high elevation, and perfect follow-through.
In his senior season (2005-06), Novak averaged 17.5 points per game and earned First Team All-Big East honors. He finished his Marquette career with 1,567 points and 354 made three-pointers.
Novak’s Career Stats at Marquette
| Season | PPG | 3PT% | FT% | RPG |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2002-03 | 6.7 | 50.5% | 93.8% | 2.2 |
| 2003-04 | 12.5 | 44.8% | 91.0% | 3.4 |
| 2004-05 | 13.5 | 41.1% | 92.2% | 4.1 |
| 2005-06 | 17.5 | 46.7% | 97.4% | 5.9 |
NCAA Performances
Novak’s most memorable tournament moment came during the 2003 NCAA Tournament when he played alongside future NBA star Dwyane Wade. The duo formed a potent offensive combination that helped Marquette reach the Final Four.
In the Elite Eight against Kentucky, Novak contributed 8 points while Wade dominated with a triple-double. This victory propelled Marquette to its first Final Four appearance since 1977.
Though Kansas defeated Marquette in the Final Four, Novak’s tournament experience proved invaluable for his development. His clutch shooting in high-pressure situations became a hallmark of his game.
After graduating in 2006, Novak was selected 32nd overall in the NBA Draft. His time at Marquette had prepared him well for professional basketball, where he would continue his career as a three-point specialist.
Entrance into the NBA
Steve Novak’s journey to professional basketball began when he was selected in the 2006 NBA Draft after an impressive college career at Marquette University. His early professional years would establish the foundation for his reputation as a specialized three-point shooter.
NBA Draft
Steve Novak was selected by the Houston Rockets with the 32nd overall pick in the second round of the 2006 NBA Draft. Coming out of Marquette University, Novak had established himself as an exceptional shooter with NBA-range three-point ability.
At 6’10”, scouts viewed him as a potential “stretch four” who could space the floor with his perimeter shooting. His draft stock was boosted by impressive pre-draft workouts where he showcased his shooting mechanics.
The Rockets, under coach Jeff Van Gundy at the time, saw value in Novak’s specialized skill set despite concerns about his defensive capabilities and athleticism.
| Draft Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Draft Year | 2006 |
| Round | 2nd |
| Overall Pick | 32nd |
| Team | Houston Rockets |
| College | Marquette University |
Rookie Season
Novak’s rookie campaign with the Houston Rockets in 2006-07 provided limited opportunities to showcase his shooting prowess. He appeared in 35 games but averaged just 5.5 minutes per contest in a team led by stars Tracy McGrady and Yao Ming.
Despite the limited playing time, Novak made the most of his chances by shooting 33.3% from three-point range. His most memorable rookie moment came on February 13, 2007, when he hit a game-winning three-pointer against the Sacramento Kings.
The rookie signed a two-year contract worth approximately $1.3 million, standard for a second-round selection. Coach Van Gundy used Novak sparingly, often in specific situations that called for outside shooting.
Novak’s rookie season established the pattern that would define his career: a specialized role player valued primarily for his shooting ability rather than as an all-around contributor.
Professional Play Across Teams
Steve Novak’s NBA journey spanned multiple teams where he established himself as a specialist three-point shooter. His career took him from coast to coast, with notable stops that showcased his sharpshooting abilities and team-first mentality.
Los Angeles Clippers Stint
Novak began his NBA career with the Houston Rockets after being selected 32nd overall in the 2006 NBA Draft. However, his first significant opportunity came with the Los Angeles Clippers, who acquired him in 2008.
During the 2008-2009 season with the Clippers, Novak carved out a role as a three-point specialist. He appeared in 71 games, averaging 16.4 minutes per contest. His shooting prowess was immediately evident, as he connected on 41.6% of his attempts from beyond the arc.
The Clippers valued Novak’s ability to stretch the floor despite limited minutes. His contract with the team was worth approximately $800,000 for the season, reflecting his status as a developing role player.
Dallas Mavericks Contributions
Novak joined the Dallas Mavericks for the 2010-2011 season, though his time there was brief. He appeared in just 11 games for the eventual NBA champions.
With the Mavericks, Novak maintained his reputation as a three-point specialist, connecting on 42.1% of his attempts from deep. Despite limited playing time, averaging just 7.2 minutes per game, he remained ready when called upon.
His contributions, while limited in volume, demonstrated his professional approach. Novak earned approximately $915,000 during this season, providing Dallas with a specific skill set at a reasonable price.
| Season | Team | GP | MPG | PPG | 3PT% |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2010-11 | Dallas | 11 | 7.2 | 2.6 | 42.1% |
New York Knicks Success
Novak found his greatest NBA success with the New York Knicks, particularly during the 2011-2012 season. This period represented the pinnacle of his professional career.
In New York, Novak flourished under coach Mike D’Antoni’s system, which emphasized three-point shooting. He led the NBA in three-point shooting percentage (47.2%) during the 2011-12 season while averaging 8.8 points per game.
His success earned him a four-year, $15 million contract with the Knicks. Novak became a fan favorite at Madison Square Garden, with crowds erupting whenever he entered games or prepared to shoot.
The “Novakaine” nickname emerged during this period, highlighting his ability to silently kill opponents with his deadly shooting touch. His championship belt celebration after made three-pointers became his signature move.
Journey with Spurs, Raptors, Jazz, Thunder
The later years of Novak’s career saw him bounce between several teams as he embraced the role of veteran sharpshooter. After the Knicks, he played for the Toronto Raptors (2013-14), Utah Jazz (2014-15), and Oklahoma City Thunder (2015-16).
With each team, Novak maintained his specialty as a three-point shooter. His career three-point percentage remained impressive, hovering around 43% throughout these stops. Though his minutes decreased, his locker room presence and professionalism remained valuable.
His stint with the Spurs was particularly brief but placed him alongside legendary coach Gregg Popovich. Novak’s final NBA stop came with his hometown Milwaukee Bucks in 2016, bringing his career full circle.
After retirement, Novak transitioned seamlessly into broadcasting, becoming a television analyst for the Milwaukee Bucks. His deep understanding of the game and articulate communication style made him a natural fit for the role.
Milwaukee Bucks Era
Steve Novak’s career came full circle when he returned to his hometown team in 2016. The Wisconsin native brought shooting expertise and veteran leadership to a developing Bucks squad during a transformative period for the franchise.
Return to Milwaukee
The Milwaukee Bucks signed Novak on February 22, 2016, bringing the sharpshooter back to his home state. This homecoming represented a meaningful chapter for the Brown Deer native who had deep connections to the area.
Novak’s arrival coincided with an exciting time for the franchise. The team was preparing for their move to a new arena and establishing a fresh identity in the NBA.
For Novak, playing for his hometown team fulfilled a career-long aspiration. His Wisconsin roots made him an immediate fan favorite, and his familiarity with Milwaukee helped strengthen the team’s connection to the local community.
Performance with the Bucks
Unfortunately, Novak’s on-court impact with the Bucks was limited. He appeared in only three games before suffering a left knee injury that sidelined him for the remainder of the 2015-16 season.
His statistical output with Milwaukee was minimal:
| Season | Games | MPG | PPG | 3PT% |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2015-16 | 3 | 6.0 | 2.3 | 33.3% |
| 2016-17 | 8 | 2.5 | 0.8 | 16.7% |
Novak returned for the 2016-17 season but played sparingly. Despite his limited minutes, his reputation as an elite three-point specialist remained intact. Coaches valued his ability to stretch the floor and create spacing for drivers like Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Impact on Team Dynamics
Novak’s greatest contributions came off the court. He provided mentorship to developing players and helped establish professional standards.
His deep understanding of Milwaukee basketball culture benefited the Bucks organization. Novak designed team merchandise inspired by the city, creating snapback hats that reflected his connection to Milwaukee.
After retiring, Novak transitioned to a role with Bucks broadcasts, providing analysis and insights. His basketball knowledge and communication skills made him a natural fit for media work.
The Wisconsin Herd, Milwaukee’s G-League affiliate, also benefited from Novak’s expertise as he occasionally provided guidance to developing players making their way up to the NBA level.
Transition off the Court
Steve Novak seamlessly pivoted from his playing days to becoming a valued voice in basketball media and an active community leader in his home state of Wisconsin. His local connections and basketball knowledge created new opportunities after retirement.
Broadcasting Career
When Steve Novak hung up his jersey, he didn’t stray far from the hardwood. Shortly after completing the NBA’s “Sportscaster U” program, the Milwaukee Bucks called him unexpectedly to join their broadcast team. This perfect timing launched his second career.
Novak quickly established himself as an insightful analyst for Fox Sports Wisconsin (now Bally Sports Wisconsin). His deep basketball knowledge and articulate delivery made him a natural in the broadcast booth.
What separates Novak is his ability to break down complex game situations in clear, accessible terms. His firsthand experience as a shooter gives him unique perspective when analyzing floor spacing and offensive schemes.
Community Engagement
Off the court, Novak became a valuable ambassador for the Milwaukee Bucks, representing the organization at community events throughout Wisconsin. His roots in the state – born in Brown Deer and starring at Marquette University – made him especially relatable to local fans.
Novak’s community work focuses heavily on youth basketball development. He regularly appears at camps and clinics, sharing not just shooting techniques but life lessons about perseverance and work ethic.
His involvement with charitable initiatives has strengthened his connection to Milwaukee. Whether visiting children’s hospitals or participating in fundraisers, Novak approaches community service with the same dedication he brought to his playing career.
Career Highlights and Stats
Steve Novak carved out a niche in the NBA as a sharpshooter, particularly during his time with the Milwaukee Bucks and other teams throughout his career. His shooting ability made him a valuable specialist in the league.
Notable Achievements
Novak’s most impressive achievement came during the 2011-2012 season with the New York Knicks when he led the NBA in three-point shooting percentage at 47.2%. This remarkable accuracy established him as one of the league’s premier shooters.
He scored a career-high 33 points against the Charlotte Bobcats on April 7, 2012, connecting on 8 three-pointers in that game.
The 6-foot-10 forward from Marquette University was selected by the Houston Rockets with the 32nd overall pick in the 2006 NBA Draft. While never a regular starter, Novak developed into a valuable role player known for his ability to stretch defenses.
During his career, Novak played for eight different NBA teams, with multiple stints with the Milwaukee Bucks – his hometown team. His specialization as a three-point shooter made him an early example of the league’s shift toward valuing floor spacing.
Career Statistics
Novak’s career NBA averages reflect his specialized role as a three-point shooter. Over his 10-year career, he averaged 4.7 points, 1.3 rebounds, and 0.3 assists per game.
| Season | Team | PPG | RPG | 3PT% |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Career | Various | 4.7 | 1.3 | 43.0 |
| 2011-12 | Knicks | 8.8 | 2.1 | 47.2 |
His best statistical season came with the Knicks in 2011-12 when he averaged 8.8 points and 2.1 rebounds while shooting an NBA-best 47.2% from beyond the arc. Novak attempted 90% of his shots from three-point range during his career, cementing his reputation as a specialist.
Standing at 6-10 and weighing 225 pounds, Novak’s height allowed him to shoot over defenders effectively. His career game score high was 21.8, showcasing his ability to impact games despite limited minutes.
Legacy and Influence
Steve Novak’s impact on basketball extends far beyond his statistics or time on the court. His journey from Wisconsin native to NBA sharpshooter and eventually Bucks analyst has left a lasting mark on the game and those who follow it.
Contribution to Basketball
Novak’s most significant contribution to basketball was his elite three-point shooting ability. As a specialist who at one point ranked No. 2 in the NBA in 3-point percentage at 47.7%, he helped legitimize the role of the pure shooter in the modern NBA.
His career spanned multiple teams, but his Wisconsin roots remained important. After playing at Marquette University with Dwyane Wade, Novak eventually returned to his home state as a member of the Milwaukee Bucks organization.
Post-retirement, Novak transitioned to become a television analyst for the Bucks, where his basketball IQ and understanding of shooting mechanics have provided viewers with expert insights on the game’s evolution.
Inspiration to Future Generations
Novak’s career path serves as a blueprint for specialists in basketball. He carved out a decade-long NBA career despite not being an elite all-around player, showing youngsters the value of mastering one specific skill.
His connection to Wisconsin basketball history creates a bridge between generations. Novak has provided valuable commentary on the evolution of stars like Giannis Antetokounmpo, helping fans understand the technical aspects of player development.
Young shooters in Milwaukee’s system look to Novak’s career as evidence that specialized skills can lead to professional success. His analysis of modern Bucks players like Damian Lillard provides a valuable perspective that combines old-school fundamentals with appreciation for the modern game.
Recent News and Current Endeavors
Steve Novak has remained active in the basketball world since retiring as a player, establishing himself as a respected analyst for the Milwaukee Bucks while pursuing various business interests and enjoying family life.
Business Ventures
Novak has found his post-playing niche as a Bucks analyst, providing insightful commentary and basketball expertise to fans. His analysis has become particularly valued during the Bucks’ recent performances, including their January surge earlier this year.
He regularly appears on Bucks broadcasts and contributes to the team’s media content. On the “Hear District” platform, Novak has been breaking down key game strategies and offering unique perspectives on player performance.
His basketball knowledge and communication skills have made him a natural fit for broadcasting. Novak leverages his experience from playing with multiple NBA teams including the Rockets, Clippers, Mavericks, Spurs, Knicks, Raptors, Jazz, Thunder, and finally the Bucks.
Personal Life Updates
Novak proudly identifies himself as a Milwaukee native with strong ties to the area. His social media presence reflects his continued connection to his roots as both a Milwaukee Buck and Marquette Golden Eagle.
Family appears to remain a priority for Novak in his post-playing career. He has maintained a balanced life between his professional responsibilities and family time, despite being generally private about his personal affairs.
His local celebrity status in Milwaukee gives him a unique perspective when discussing the team’s developments. Novak’s insights on Damian Lillard’s impact on the team have been particularly noteworthy in recent broadcasts.
As a former player who competed across the league before returning home to Milwaukee, Novak brings both national perspective and local passion to his current endeavors.
