On Jan 23, despite having one of the best records in the league, Milwaukee dismissed head coach Adrian Griffin in the middle of his first season. Griffin was brought in after Mike Budenholzer was fired following a stunning 4-1 series loss to the Miami Heat. Milwaukee has brought in Doc Rivers as their new head coach. Rivers previously coached the Orlando Magic, Boston Celtics, LA Clippers and Philadelphia 76ers.
Rivers had been working as an analyst for ESPN this season after being let go by the 76ers last year. Now he takes the reins of a team with championship expectations, and Rivers knows it.
In his introductory presser Rivers was asked why he took the Bucks job. “Because I mean c’mon. You know the answer.” Rivers then elaborated simply with, “Giannis, Dame.” Rivers has had a lot of experience coaching all-stars, coaching players like Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce, Kawhi Leonard, Joel Embiid and James Harden. Giannis and Lillard will now join this list.
Defensive struggles were a major reason for Griffin’s firing. The team ranked 22nd in defensive rating this year, far below from when they were ranked fourth last year. The Bucks bring in Rivers in hopes of improving their defense to championship caliber.
How are fans reacting to this shake-up in Milwaukee though? Bucks fan Carson Slimmer quoted Doc Rivers’ introductory presser saying, “I wouldn’t wish this on anyone.” Rivers originally said this when talking about taking over a team mid-season, but Slimmer felt it reflected his views as well. Speaking with another fan, Franklin Deaner-Rogers remarked, “Yikes.”
But despite these less than positive reactions, what’s done is done. Doc Rivers is the coach of the Bucks for the remainder of the season and a hopeful playoff run. As fans or viewers, all that’s left to do is watch some basketball.
