Rivers exits as Bucks head coach after season-ending loss
Tap title to read story
MILWAUKEE — Doc Rivers will not return as head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks, ESPN reported Sunday, after the Bucks' season ended with a 126-106 loss to the Philadelphia 76ers. Reports published Sunday night and distributed by AP and local outlets indicated Rivers is stepping away from the head coaching role and that discussions continue about his future with the organization.
MILWAUKEE — Doc Rivers will not return as head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks, ESPN reported Sunday, after the Bucks' season ended with a 126-106 loss to the Philadelphia 76ers. Reports published Sunday night and distributed by AP and local outlets indicated Rivers is stepping away from the head coaching role and that discussions continue about his future with the organization.
This week the organization and media outlets reported that the Bucks, who finished the season 32-50, are discussing whether Rivers will move into an advisory role while paying out his contract for the 2026-27 season. The reports cited limited availability from Giannis Antetokounmpo during the season and referenced internal friction; Milwaukee officials and league sources say a coaching search and roster review are expected this offseason.
More context
Timeline
- 1. January 2024: Doc Rivers was hired as Milwaukee Bucks head coach.
- 2. 2025-2026 season: Bucks finished with a 32-50 record, ending a nine-season playoff streak.
- 3. During the season: Giannis Antetokounmpo appeared in 36 games with reduced availability.
- 4. Sunday (season end): Bucks lost 126-106 to the Philadelphia 76ers in the season finale.
- 5. That Sunday night: ESPN and AP reported Rivers will not return and the Bucks discussed paying his final contract year and a possible advisory role.
Why it matters
If you're a Bucks fan, this is a big shake-up. Rivers' exit could mean a new coaching style, and possibly, a different team dynamic. Keep an eye on the Bucks' offseason moves. They could hint at the team's future direction.
Sources
JQJO Editorial Desk · Human reviewed · AI assisted. Report a correction.
