Doc Rivers has been named the new head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks, assuming the role with a substantial contract for three-and-a-half years valued at approximately $40 million. Rivers, a seasoned NBA coach with 24 seasons under his belt, is set to make his coaching debut for the Bucks in an upcoming game against the Denver Nuggets on January 29.
The Bucks' General Manager, Jon Horst, expressed confidence in Rivers' leadership and communication skills, which have been well-established throughout his illustrious coaching career. Horst praised Rivers as a "proven, extraordinary leader" and emphasized his championship experience and reputation as an innovator as key reasons for his appointment.
Rivers brings to the table an impressive record, having led his teams to the playoffs 19 times and accumulating 1,097 wins as a head coach. His tenure includes two trips to the NBA Finals and a triumphant championship run with the Boston Celtics in 2008. As Rivers steps into his new role, he inherits a Bucks team co-owned by Wes Edens, Jimmy and Dee Haslam, and Jamie Dinan, who share in the excitement of bringing a coach of Rivers' caliber to Milwaukee.
The decision to hire Rivers follows the firing of Adrian Griffin, who had coached the Bucks to a 30-13 record this season before conflicts with the team and staff led to his dismissal. Notably, Griffin's altercation with player Bobby Portis during a game and his indecision regarding the implementation of a more aggressive scheme contributed to the decision. Following Griffin's departure, Joe Prunty temporarily took over as interim head coach, with his final game slated against the New Orleans Pelicans on Saturday.
Despite ranking second in offensive power, the Bucks have struggled defensively, ranking 20th in the league. Rivers, known for emphasizing defense over offensive rebounding, will be tasked with improving the team's perimeter and wing defense. This could prove crucial for a squad featuring stars like Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard.
Antetokounmpo, in particular, has shown reluctance to be the roll man in pick-and-roll plays, an area where Rivers has previously suggested the Bucks could capitalize. With the playoffs underway, Rivers' experience and strategic mindset will be put to the test as he takes over a team midseason—a scenario where no outside coach has ever led a team to an NBA championship.
The Bucks' management remains optimistic about their new hire, with Horst and the co-owners expressing strong belief in Rivers' ability to maximize the team's potential. As Rivers embarks on this midseason challenge, the Bucks hope that his winning leadership qualities will guide them to the ultimate goal: an NBA championship.
In summary, the Milwaukee Bucks are turning a new page with Doc Rivers at the helm. His extensive experience, playoff pedigree, and defensive focus align with the needs of a talented team that is eager to contend for a title. The organization and its fans await eagerly to see if Rivers can indeed break the mold and lead the Bucks to glory in the postseason.
