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Doc Rivers is out as head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks after just three seasons, marking yet another shift for the franchise. This decision could reshape the Bucks' trajectory as they search for a new leader for the third time in three years.
Rivers leaves Milwaukee with a record of 97-103, including two first-round playoff exits and a failure to qualify for the postseason this year. The Bucks plan to pay Rivers his substantial salary for the 2026-27 season while discussing a potential advisory role for him within the organization. Team insiders report a disconnect between Rivers and the players throughout the season, which contributed to internal frustrations.
Rivers took over in January 2024, replacing Adrian Griffin after a 30-13 start. His first full season saw the Bucks finish 48-34, but injuries to key players like Damian Lillard and Giannis Antetokounmpo hampered playoff success. Antetokounmpo played just 36 games in 2025-26, compounding the challenges. Despite his Hall of Fame credentials and a championship with the Boston Celtics, Rivers couldn't navigate Milwaukee back to postseason glory. The Bucks, who last won a playoff series in 2022, concluded a disappointing season with a 32-50 record after a loss to the 76ers.
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