Bucks Coach Doc Rivers to Miss Thunder Game for Funeral
Milwaukee Bucks’ head coach Doc Rivers will miss the upcoming game against the Oklahoma City Thunder to attend a funeral. The decision was announced by the team shortly before the tip-off, which is scheduled to take place on Thursday night.
Bucks to be Led by Assistant Coach
In Rivers’ absence, assistant coach Darvin Ham will take the reins. Ham, who is 52 years old, has been with the Bucks as the lead assistant since 2024. Prior to that, he served as the head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers for two years. His tenure with Milwaukee’s coaching staff started in 2018 and lasted until 2022.
Coaching Experience and Performance
During his time with the Lakers, Ham recorded a coaching record of 90 wins and 74 losses, leading the team to one appearance in the Western Conference Finals.
Injury Updates for the Game
The Bucks also provided injury updates for the upcoming matchup. Ryan Rollins will be sidelined due to right foot plantar fasciitis. Meanwhile, Kyle Kuzma is available for selection despite experiencing left foot soreness.
Key Player Statistics
- Ryan Rollins: 16.9 points per game in 51 appearances; leading scorer for the Bucks this season.
- Giannis Antetokounmpo: Averaging 28.0 points per game; out due to a right calf strain, marking his ninth consecutive game missed.
The Bucks are looking to maintain their momentum heading into the All-Star break. With assistant coach Ham at the helm, the team aims for a successful outcome against the Thunder.
