Bucks’ Giannis Antetokounmpo Surprised By Coach Adrian Griffin’s Departure

Milwaukee Bucks star forward Giannis Antetokounmpo told reporters Wednesday night that he was surprised by the team’s decision to fire coach Adrian Griffin. Antetokounmpo’s confusion mirrors that of many outsiders, as the Bucks had a 30-13 record in Griffin’s first 43 games at the helm.

“I’ve got to trust the front office … My job is to be the best version of myself, to lead this team out there and help win games,” Antetokounmpo said. “Their job is to create the best team possible and the best atmosphere around the team possible that they believe gives us a better chance to win a championship. But yeah, I do think [firing Griffin] was a surprise.”

Antentokounmpo and others have been critical of the team’s play this season despite their record. Though they are second in the Eastern Conference, Antetokounmpo has repeatedly criticized himself and the team for a lack of chemistry and focus.

From the outside looking in, it’s difficult to criticize Griffin’s performance as the team’s coach. The 2023-24 season was his first as a head coach and he led his team to a commanding position in the Eastern Conference.

Nevertheless, Bucks general manager Jon Horst stood by his decision Wednesday. Horst reportedly said that the team needed to improve from an organizational and coaching standpoint in preparation for the postseason. The team has reportedly agreed to a deal in principle to hire coaching veteran Doc Rivers as Griffin’s replacement. He also denied any player involvement in the decision.

“I loved the guy. I invited him to my wedding,” Antetokounmpo said of Griffin. “I was coached by him and we did very, very, very well.”

The Bucks, without Griffin, held the Cavaliers in check for the entire game Wednesday and eventually cruised to a 126-116 victory. They improved to 31-13 on the season and play Cleveland again Friday.

Article by Patrick Moquin