Former Los Angeles Lakers coach Darvin Ham has agreed to join Milwaukee Bucks coach Doc Rivers' staff as the top assistant, marking a significant move in the NBA coaching sphere.
Ham's Tenure with the Lakers
Ham, who was dismissed by the Lakers despite achieving a 94-70 record and making a trip to the Western Conference finals over two seasons, has found a new home in Milwaukee. Despite his relatively successful stint with the Lakers, the franchise decided to part ways, paving the way for his return to the Bucks.
A Homecoming for Ham
Returning to the Bucks is a sort of homecoming for Ham. He had previously spent four seasons with the franchise and was part of the coaching staff during their 2021 NBA championship season. Given his history and success with the Bucks, it’s no surprise that both parties are eager to reunite. At 50 years old, Ham was highly sought after this offseason as a top assistant coach.
Circumstantial Timing
Ham's return to Milwaukee comes at a crucial time, as the Bucks faced significant setbacks due to injuries, culminating in a first-round playoff loss to the Indiana Pacers this season. One of Ham's major assets is his strong relationships with key Bucks players, including two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo. These relationships are invaluable as they can help in fostering team cohesion and performance on the court.
Rivers' Strategic Move
Doc Rivers, who was hired 42 games into the regular season following the departure of first-year coach Adrian Griffin, has been busy remaking the team's coaching staff. The addition of Darvin Ham as his top assistant is seen as a strategic move to bolster the team's chances in the upcoming seasons. Rivers' decision to bring Ham on board is a testament to his belief in Ham's coaching abilities and his fit within the Bucks' culture.
Impact on the Bucks' Future
With Ham's experience and established rapport with key players, this move could significantly impact the Bucks' performance in the subsequent seasons. As the Bucks aim to bounce back from their early playoff exit, the combination of Rivers and Ham at the helm of the coaching staff offers a promising outlook. Fans and analysts alike will be keen to see how this new coaching dynamic influences the team's performance and chemistry.
Conclusion
In summary, Darvin Ham's return to Milwaukee as Doc Rivers' top assistant marks a significant development for both the coach and the franchise. With a history of success and strong player relationships, Ham's addition to the Bucks' coaching staff is poised to be a game-changer in the NBA landscape.