In the latest chapter of the Bucks' coaching saga, Milwaukee has finalized a deal to hire Taylor Jenkins as head coach, replacing Doc Rivers who stepped down earlier this month after a 32-50 season. The former Grizzlies coach and Bucks assistant returns amid uncertainty over Giannis Antetokounmpo's future.
This hire caps the 'Bucks Coaching Situation: Doc Rivers' developments, where Rivers' tenure ended following three tough seasons, a Hall of Fame induction, and the team's first playoff miss since 2016. Jenkins, who served as lead assistant under Mike Budenholzer in Milwaukee during 2018-19, brings a 250-214 record from six seasons in Memphis, including three playoff runs. Fired late in the 2024-25 season, he took a year off before this return, per ESPN.
Jenkins' prior work with Giannis Antetokounmpo could help stabilize the star's commitment or facilitate a rebuild/trade, as hinted by team governor Wes Edens. Roster challenges persist, including Damian Lillard's $22.5M contract over three years and lottery odds complicated by the Atlanta Hawks' top pick from a prior trade. The Bucks eye draft night decisions on Antetokounmpo.
