Milwaukee Bucks fire coach Doc Rivers after poor season and player issues

The Milwaukee Bucks have fired head coach Doc Rivers. This is the third coach in three years for the team.
By Newsroom | Sports, Basketball |

Doc Rivers is no longer the head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks, according to multiple sources who spoke with ESPN on Sunday. This marks the end of a tumultuous period for the team, which will now undertake its third head coaching search in as many years.

Sources: Rivers out after three years with Bucks - 1

A significant disconnect between Rivers and the players was reportedly a persistent issue throughout the season, with specific incidents described as having "annoyed the locker room." The Bucks also failed to extend their streak of nine consecutive postseason appearances this year.

Sources: Rivers out after three years with Bucks - 2

Rivers, a coach with a distinguished NBA resume, including significant regular-season and playoff victories, took over the Bucks in January 2024, succeeding Adrian Griffin. His tenure was characterized by frequent player injuries, notably to star players like Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard, which impacted the team's performance across all three seasons.

Read More: Toronto Raptors clinch NBA playoff spot for first time in 4 years

Sources: Rivers out after three years with Bucks - 3

The franchise and Rivers are reportedly in discussions regarding a potential advisory role for him within the organization. However, sources indicate Rivers may be contemplating a break from coaching altogether, with a desire to spend more time with his family. He is expected to be compensated for the remaining year of his contract.

Sources: Rivers out after three years with Bucks - 4

Rivers' coaching record with the Bucks stands at 97-103 in the regular season over two and a half seasons. His first season, which ended mid-season, saw the team finish with a 41-41 record, but a playoff exit. Subsequent seasons also concluded with first-round playoff losses. The team's struggles were compounded by significant injuries to key players, including Antetokounmpo playing only 36 games this past season.

Despite the team's on-court difficulties and the reported locker room issues, Rivers has been acknowledged for his overall career achievements, including being inducted into the Hall of Fame and holding a high ranking among active NBA coaches in career wins. The reported departure comes shortly after the Bucks' season-ending loss in Philadelphia.

Read More: Dallas Mavericks Rookie Cooper Flagg's Season Ends Early Due to Ankle Injury

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why did the Milwaukee Bucks fire coach Doc Rivers on Sunday, April 13, 2026?
The Bucks fired Doc Rivers because of a disconnect with players and the team failing to reach the playoffs. This is their third coaching change in three years.
Q: What was Doc Rivers' record with the Milwaukee Bucks?
Doc Rivers had a regular season record of 97 wins and 103 losses over two and a half seasons. His tenure included playoff exits and injuries to star players.
Q: What happens next for the Milwaukee Bucks after firing Doc Rivers?
The Bucks will now start their search for a new head coach. They are looking for a coach after missing the playoffs and having player issues.
Q: Will Doc Rivers get paid by the Milwaukee Bucks?
Yes, Doc Rivers is expected to be paid for the remaining year on his contract. There are talks about him possibly taking an advisory role, but he might also take a break from coaching.
Q: How did injuries affect the Milwaukee Bucks under Doc Rivers?
Injuries to key players like Giannis Antetokounmpo, who only played 36 games this past season, significantly impacted the team's performance and contributed to their struggles.