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Giannis Antetokounmpo says suiting up for Miami feels “almost like being alive again,” a remark that underscores how sharply his chapter in Milwaukee has closed. The comment, made to The Athletic’s Eric Nehm (subscription required), highlights a broader shake-up for the Bucks after a turbulent stretch under their previous coaching regime.
How a coaching change shifted the franchise
The decision to hire Doc Rivers marked a clear inflection point for Milwaukee. What followed was a visible change in atmosphere and results, according to observers and reports tied to the club’s recent seasons.
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Problems in the locker room did not rest on any single player. That said, tensions involving Giannis — including reported trade-related friction and times he was late to team events — factored into a larger sense that the organization had lost its footing.
Results on the court
On the scoreboard, the Bucks struggled after the coaching switch. Under Rivers, the team compiled a 97-103 record. By contrast, the team had been 30-13 when they moved on from Adrian Griffin, a stark difference that helps explain why critics point to the coaching change as a catalyst.
Bringing Rivers back for another season was widely viewed as a risky move. That season ended with the team missing the playoffs, making further staff changes, and ultimately moving on from their franchise cornerstone.
Why the split matters to both sides
For Giannis, the move to Miami pairs him with Erik Spoelstra, a coach with an established reputation in that market. The switch in leadership promises a different environment and new competitive aims for the star forward.
Meanwhile, Milwaukee now has room to rebuild. With increased draft assets and younger players to develop, the franchise has installed Taylor Jenkins as head coach and appears positioned to refocus its roster construction and culture.
Looking ahead
Both parties leave a strained partnership behind. For the Bucks, that creates an opportunity to reset under new leadership. For Giannis, Miami offers a fresh start and a familiar promise: a chance to reignite his career in a different setting.
