Sources: Bucks finalizing deal to hire Taylor Jenkins

The Milwaukee Bucks are finalizing a deal to hire Taylor Jenkins because the franchise’s new head coach, sources advised ESPN on Thursday.

Jenkins, a Bucks assistant below Mike Budenholzer in 2018-19, went 250-214 because the winningest coach in Memphis Grizzlies historical past and made three playoff appearances throughout six seasons with the franchise earlier than being fired in March 2025. The Bucks’ brass, together with possession, met in particular person with Jenkins final week in Memphis and on Tuesday in Milwaukee to safe their dedication, sources mentioned.

Jenkins was seen as the highest out there possibility within the NBA teaching panorama, and his participant growth pedigree alongside together with his tenure as a culture-setter and somebody who drives competitiveness made him the Bucks’ prime goal.

The Bucks completed 32-50 this season, snapping a streak of 9 consecutive years within the playoffs.

Jenkins will enter the top teaching job after the ouster of Doc Rivers, who went 97-103 throughout three seasons in Milwaukee, and amid vital questions in regards to the Bucks’ path, together with the way forward for star Giannis Antetokounmpo.

When requested about his future earlier this month, Antetokounmpo did not shut the door on signing one other extension in October if it is supplied to him.

“That’s a very good question,” Antetokounmpo mentioned when requested whether or not he has performed his final sport in a Milwaukee uniform. “I don’t know. It’s not up to me. We’ll see.”