Unexpectedly, a competing executive of the Bucks played a role in Doc Rivers’ hiring.
This week, Wyc Grousbeck, the majority owner of the Boston Celtics, disclosed his involvement in the Milwaukee Bucks’ recent hiring of Doc Rivers. Grousbeck shared on “The Greg Hill Show” that the Bucks contacted him for a reference on Rivers before finalizing him as their midseason coaching replacement for Adrian Griffin. Grousbeck expressed his admiration for Doc Rivers, highlighting his crucial role in the Celtics’ 2008 NBA title win and acknowledging him as a special friend. Despite the bold move of seeking advice from a top rival, given the Celtics and Bucks’ status as major contenders in the Eastern Conference, Grousbeck’s positive assessment was influenced by Rivers’ significant impact on the Celtics in the past. However, Rivers’ coaching reputation has suffered in recent years, marked by a less impressive playoff track record, leading to his status as a free agent coach this season. Since Rivers took over the Bucks in late January, the team has struggled with a 3-7 record in the first 10 games, and Rivers has already been critical of the team publicly.
