Why Bucks, Doc Rivers parted ways after disappointing 32-50 season

Why Bucks, Doc Rivers parted ways after disappointing 32-50 season originally appeared on The Sporting News . Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here . The first significant decision of a huge offseason for the Milwaukee Bucks was announced just minutes after their final game of 2025-26.

Shortly after a season-ending loss to the Philadelphia 76ers , ESPN's Shams Charania reported Sunday night that the Bucks and head coach Doc Rivers are parting ways. While Rivers' departure following a 32-win season was generally expected, the official news now means the Bucks will be searching for a new head coach, who may or may not have Giannis Antetokounmpo around by the time next season begins. Here's what to know about Milwaukee and Rivers parting ways.

MORE: What's next for Doc Rivers following Bucks exit? Doc Rivers departs as Bucks head coach Throughout a tough 2025-26 season, it's become more apparent that Rivers' days in Milwaukee were likely numbered. He was hired by the team in 2024 as the kind of coach expected to lead a playoff contender, owning a deep history of leading teams to the franchise, including a title.

With Antetokounmpo dealing with injuries, lackluster depth behind him, and on-and-off tension between the star forward and his franchise throughout the season, from trade rumors to his disagreements about sitting to end the season, Milwaukee was expected to seek a big reset this offseason, whether it trades Antetokounmpo or not. Shortly after the Bucks' final loss of 2025-26, the expectation that Rivers would be departing became official — although Charania's report was unclear about whether it was a mutual decision, Rivers' or the Bucks'. Rivers will be paid the remainder of his deal with the team, per Charania.