Doc Rivers officially steps down as Bucks head coach: He deeply regrets that the result did not meet their expectations.

The Milwaukee Bucks officially announced on Monday that Doc Rivers has stepped down as head coach, effective immediately.

The 64-year-old Rivers began his coaching career in 1999, previously coaching the Orlando Magic, Boston Celtics, Los Angeles Clippers, and Philadelphia 76ers. He succeeded Adrian Griffin as the Bucks' head coach in January 2024, leading the team to a 96-106 record to date.

Multiple sources have confirmed that the main reason for Rivers' dismissal was his failure to meet expectations in leading the team: he had been in charge of the Bucks for three seasons, but led the team to a first-round exit in the playoffs for two consecutive years. In the 2025/26 season, the Bucks didn't even make the playoffs or the play-in tournament.

Regarding Rivers' departure, Bucks owners Wes Edens, Jimmy Haslam, Dee Haslam, and Jamie Dinan issued a statement saying, "We are honored that Doc served as our head coach and played a leadership role in the team and the community. In addition to his contributions on the court, we also thank Doc for the grace and professionalism he displayed during his time coaching in Milwaukee."

Rivers later added, “I absolutely loved my time in Milwaukee. It was an honor to return to where my career began, to the city that has always welcomed me. I’m deeply disappointed that the outcome wasn’t what we hoped for, but I’m truly grateful for the experience, the relationships we built during that time, and the unwavering support from the fans and community. Milwaukee means a lot to me, and this experience will always hold a special place in my heart.”

Rivers' current contract was originally scheduled to expire in the 2026/27 season. According to sources, the Bucks will pay the remaining approximately $40 million of his salary and are in discussions regarding whether Rivers will become a team consultant.

Image source: Internet