Sports14 April, 20261 min read
Milwaukee Bucks Fire Doc Rivers After Three Seasons Amid Locker Room Disconnect
Rivers departs as Bucks head coach after 32-50 season. Bucks will conduct their third head coaching search in three years.
Rivers Departs Bucks
Doc Rivers is departing as head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks after three seasons. The Bucks will pay Rivers his eight-figure salary for the 2026-27 season. Rivers went 97-103 during his three seasons, with two first-round playoff exits.
There was a season-long disconnect between Rivers and the players. Rivers took over in late January 2024, replacing Adrian Griffin.
Rivers dealt with injuries to top players in each season. He was named to the Hall of Fame Class of 2026.
Season of Strife
The 2025-26 season was particularly difficult for the Bucks. Star Giannis Antetokounmpo caused a conflict with the club. They disagreed over whether to trade and clashed over injury returns.
Antetokounmpo only played 36 games. There were reports Rivers had fallen out with key players.
Rivers hinted at stepping away to spend time with grandchildren. The Bucks finished 32-50, missing the playoffs.
Legacy and Next Steps
Rivers leaves the Bucks with a 97-103 record. He ranks sixth all-time in NBA coaching wins. The Bucks are embarking on their third head coaching search in three years.
Taylor Jenkins has emerged as a primary target. The Bucks will be paying three head coaches next season. The future of Giannis also looms large.