The essentials
Bucks hire Taylor Jenkins as head coach after missing playoffs for first time in decade.
The Milwaukee Bucks have hired Taylor Jenkins as head coach, following Doc Rivers' departure after the 2025-2026 season. The transition comes as the Bucks missed the playoffs for the first time in a decade, marking a significant organizational shift.
Jenkins, 34, becomes the second-youngest NBA head coach, bringing experience from his tenure as Memphis Grizzlies head coach, where he compiled a 250-214 record. He previously served as a Bucks assistant coach during the 2018-2019 season. The Grizzlies fired Jenkins mid-season with a 44-29 record.
The coaching change addresses a critical juncture for the franchise. Giannis Antetokounmpo hyperextended his knee in mid-March 2026, and the Bucks co-owner has stated that Giannis must be extended or traded. Jenkins' hiring represents an attempt to stabilize the organization as it navigates roster decisions following its playoff absence.
Jenkins' prior success includes developing Ja Morant, who won Rookie of the Year under his Memphis tenure, demonstrating his ability to work with franchise cornerstone players.
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Jenkins arrives to rebuild after Bucks' historic playoff absence
The Bucks' playoff drought represents a dramatic shift for a franchise accustomed to postseason competition. Jenkins inherits a team facing fundamental questions about its direction, particularly regarding Giannis Antetokounmpo's future. His Memphis background demonstrates experience managing franchise-altering personnel decisions while developing young talent into productive contributors.
Jenkins brings proven development track record to Milwaukee challenge
Jenkins' accomplishment developing Ja Morant into Rookie of the Year shows capability with elite young talent. His 250-214 Memphis record indicates sustained competitiveness, though his mid-season firing demonstrates organizational change occurs even with winning records. At 34, Jenkins represents the NBA's trend toward younger coaching hires.