Doc Rivers steps down as Bucks' coach after disappointing season

Longtime NBA coach leaves Milwaukee after team misses playoffs for first time in 9 years

Apr. 13, 2026 at 1:56pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a fragmented basketball court scene, with overlapping shapes and planes in shades of blue, green, and orange, conveying the tumultuous end to the Bucks' season.The Bucks' disappointing season ends with the departure of longtime coach Doc Rivers, marking a new era of uncertainty for the franchise.Today in Milwaukee

Doc Rivers has announced his resignation as head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks, capping a tumultuous season in which his injury-plagued team failed to make the playoffs for the first time in 9 years. Rivers, who was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame this year, expressed gratitude for his time in Milwaukee but acknowledged his disappointment in the team's performance.

Why it matters

Rivers' departure marks the end of an era for the Bucks, who had made the playoffs in 9 consecutive seasons under his leadership. His exit comes at a critical juncture as the team looks to rebound from a 32-50 campaign that saw them fall well short of expectations.

The details

In a statement, Rivers said he has "truly loved" his time in Milwaukee, calling it a "privilege" to return to the city where he got his coaching start. However, he admitted he is "disappointed that things did not turn out the way any of us hoped." The Bucks struggled with injuries throughout the season, missing the playoffs for the first time since 2017.

  • Rivers was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame earlier this year.

The players

Doc Rivers

Longtime NBA head coach who has led the Bucks for the past 9 seasons.

Milwaukee Bucks

NBA franchise that has made the playoffs in 9 straight seasons prior to this year's 32-50 campaign.

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What they’re saying

“I have truly loved my time in Milwaukee. Coming back to where I got my start, to a city that has always embraced me, has been a privilege. I am disappointed that things did not turn out the way any of us hoped, but I am deeply grateful for this experience, the relationships built, and unwavering support from our fans and the community. Milwaukee will always mean a lot to me, and this chapter will hold a special place in my heart.”

— Doc Rivers, Former Bucks Head Coach

The takeaway

Rivers' departure marks the end of a successful era for the Bucks, who will now look to rebuild and return to the playoffs after this season's disappointing performance. His resignation comes at a critical juncture for the franchise as they seek to rebound and regain their status as a perennial contender in the Eastern Conference.