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Darvin Ham Joins Milwaukee Bucks Coaching Staff
Former Los Angeles Lakers coach Darvin Ham has agreed to join Milwaukee Bucks coach Doc Rivers' staff as the top assistant. This move comes after Ham was dismissed by the Lakers despite achieving a commendable 94-70 record and making a trip to the Western Conference finals over two seasons.
Though Ham's tenure in Los Angeles was relatively successful, the franchise opted for a new direction, leading to his return to Milwaukee. The move marks a sort of homecoming for Ham, who had previously spent four seasons with the Bucks and was part of the coaching staff during their 2021 NBA championship season. Given his history and success with the Bucks, it is no surprise that both parties are enthusiastic about this reunion.
Sought-After Coach Returns to Familiar Grounds
At 50 years old, Ham was highly sought after this offseason as a top assistant coach. His return to Milwaukee comes at a crucial time for the Bucks, who faced significant setbacks due to injuries, culminating in a first-round playoff loss to the Indiana Pacers this season. One of Ham's major assets is his strong relationships with key Bucks players, including two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo. These relationships are invaluable, as they can help in fostering team cohesion and performance on the court.
Doc Rivers, who was hired 42 games into the regular season following the departure of first-year coach Adrian Griffin, has been busy remaking the team's coaching staff. The addition of Darvin Ham as his top assistant is seen as a strategic move to bolster the team's chances in the upcoming seasons. Rivers' decision to bring Ham on board is a testament to his belief in Ham's coaching abilities and his fit within the Bucks' culture.
Impact on the Bucks' Future Performance
With Ham's experience and established rapport with key players, this move could significantly impact the Bucks' performance in the subsequent seasons. As the Bucks aim to bounce back from their early playoff exit, the combination of Rivers and Ham at the helm of the coaching staff offers a promising outlook. Fans and analysts alike will be keen to see how this new coaching dynamic influences the team's performance and chemistry.
In summary, Darvin Ham's return to Milwaukee as Doc Rivers' top assistant marks a significant development for both the coach and the franchise. With a history of success and strong player relationships, Ham's addition to the Bucks' coaching staff is poised to be a game-changer in the NBA landscape.