The Milwaukee Bucks have chosen Adrian Griffin as the team’s new head coach. According to sources, the Bucks began negotiations on a multiyear contract with Griffin after landing on him as their choice on Saturday. The deal is expected to be formalized soon. Griffin will replace Mike Budenholzer, who was dismissed after a first-round playoff loss to the Miami Heat. The Bucks’ management and ownership were impressed with Griffin’s leadership presence, character, and ability to oversee high-level defensive teams.
Griffin’s Coaching Background and Player Development
Griffin, who spent the past four years as Toronto Raptors’ top assistant under Nick Nurse, is getting his first head-coaching job. He comes with a reputation as a high-level defensive coach and a player development specialist. Griffin built his defensive system under Scott Skiles, Tom Thibodeau, Billy Donovan, and Nurse. He also developed a reputation for his work with players, including Jimmy Butler and Pascal Siakam.
Griffin has a history with Bucks general manager Jon Horst, who was in the front office when Griffin started his coaching career in Milwaukee in 2008. He has also had stops with Oklahoma City, Orlando, and Chicago. Griffin played parts of nine seasons in the NBA, including stops with Boston, Dallas, Chicago, Houston, and Seattle. He was voted MVP in both the Continental Basketball Association and United States Basketball League.
Finalists Met with Giannis Antetokounmpo
Each of the three finalists for the Bucks’ head coaching job met with two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo as part of the search process. Griffin, Golden State Warriors associate head coach Kenny Atkinson, and former Raptors coach Nick Nurse were all considered for the job. However, the Bucks decided on Griffin due to his leadership qualities and defensive expertise.
Griffin takes over a franchise that has had significant success in recent years, including winning the NBA title two years ago. The Bucks’ success has been built around Antetokounmpo, who is widely considered one of the best players in the league. The team will be looking to build on their recent success and take the next step towards winning another NBA championship under Griffin’s leadership.
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