The Bucks hired Rivers on January 26 to replace interim coach Joe Prunty and he coached his first game on January 29, leading the Bucks through a difficult sequence of road games. And since taking charge, Rivers has seen both accomplishments and struggles with the club. The Bucks’ defense has improved under his direction, but their offense has suffered, resulting in a 3-7 record under Rivers. Regardless of these hurdles, Rivers is hopeful about the team’s future and is determined to improve their performance.
His arrival in the Bucks is their fourth coaching change in six months, indicating a difficult time for them. However, star player Giannis Antetokounmpo voiced faith in Rivers, noting his successful track record and championship-level coaching expertise.
But before formally taking over as head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks in February, Doc Rivers made a request that sparked controversy in the basketball world. During the NBA’s All-Star Media Day, Rivers, who coached the Eastern Conference team in Sunday’s All-Star Game, disclosed that he had requested that the Bucks postpone his hiring until after the All-Star break.
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Read More: Stephen A. Smith Points Out Bucks’ Glaring Discrepancies in Doc Rivers Era
Rivers stated his reasoning, saying, “Taking a job when you’re about to go on the toughest road trip of the season is not the smartest decision“. He thought that beginning his coaching career with the Bucks on a difficult road trip would be challenging and proposed waiting until after the All-Star break for a smoother transition. However, hearing this, the fans went into a social media frenzy and were not happy to hear about this at all.
Fans call out Doc Rivers for playing the victim card
The NBA World has criticized Doc Rivers for allegedly playing the victim card in his statements regarding the Milwaukee Bucks’ decision to delay his employment until after the All-Star break. While some appreciate his wish for a smoother transition, most of them believe Rivers should be ready to face any obstacles coming his way, especially considering his NBA expertise. And due to that Rivers’ statements have prompted controversy among fans and experts, with many criticizing his attitude.
One fan showed Rivers how fortunate he was and said,
Oh stop crying. U know how many coaches would love to be spotted Giannis and Dame? Its's NEVER Doc's fault…smh.
— Mike Missanelli (@MikeMiss25) February 18, 2024
Another fan gave a piece of advice to Rivers, saying,
He needs to stop talking lol, this is wild to admit publicly
— Cait 🦁☘️ (@_cait104) February 18, 2024
Another fan told Rivers to stop giving excuses, saying,
why is this guy pulling out every single excuse possible
— J🐐 (@SixersJustin) February 18, 2024
One fan even made his own abbreviation for the meaning of Doc in Doc Rivers, saying,
Ahhh I get it now, The Doc nickname is for his PHD in excuse making
— EppyBen (@EppyBen) February 18, 2024
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One fan even predicted this to be his last coaching job.
I think this is going to be his last coaching job lol
— quin, from space (@starnavigation_) February 18, 2024
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So, now as the Bucks navigate the rest of the season under Rivers’ guidance, all eyes will be on how the team adapts to his coaching style and whether he can utilize such a star-studded team to its full potential.
Watch this Story: “This Is Your Fault, so F*** Off”: Doc Rivers Gets Chastised for Ruining Damian Lillard