Bucks Officially Hire Former Grizzlies Coach Taylor Jenkins
MILWAUKEE (AP) — The Milwaukee Bucks have officially announced the hiring of Taylor Jenkins as their new head coach. Jenkins, who previously coached the Memphis Grizzlies, will take over a team that had a tough season and missed the playoffs for the first time in nine years.
The Bucks plan to hold an introductory press conference for Jenkins on Wednesday at the Milwaukee Art Museum.
“Taylor’s attention to detail, toughness, and communication skills show he knows how to build a winning culture,” said the Bucks’ owners in a statement. “We’re excited to work together toward our goal of winning championships.”
Reports surfaced last week that the Bucks were finalizing a deal with Jenkins, who will replace Doc Rivers, the previous coach who stepped down after the season ended.
Jenkins coached the Grizzlies from 2019-25, leading them to three straight playoff appearances. However, he was let go mid-season and later watched as the team was swept in the playoffs by the eventual champion Oklahoma City Thunder.
This isn’t Jenkins’ first connection to the Bucks. He was an assistant coach on Mike Budenholzer’s staff in 2018-19, helping the team achieve a league-best 60-22 record and reach the Eastern Conference finals before losing to the Toronto Raptors.
“I know how important this team is to Bucks fans and the City of Milwaukee, and I’m excited to get started,” Jenkins said in a statement.
Jenkins also worked with Budenholzer as an assistant coach for the Atlanta Hawks from 2013-18. During that time, the Hawks made four playoff appearances, including a trip to the 2015 Eastern Conference finals.
“Taylor is an innovative and driven coach who embodies the culture of winning and hard work,” said Bucks general manager Jon Horst in a statement. “His basketball knowledge and leadership have been key to building successful teams throughout his career.”
Jenkins’ arrival comes as fans wonder about the future of two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo, who is eligible to become a free agent after next season. The Bucks could trade him if they believe he won’t sign a new contract.
Antetokounmpo was asked after the season if he plans to sign an extension but said it’s something he needs to discuss with his family.
Jenkins and Antetokounmpo first worked together when Jenkins was an assistant coach during Antetokounmpo’s MVP-winning season in 2019.