Earlier today, the Milwaukee Bucks made it official: Adrian Griffin is now the 17th head coach in franchise history. He is taking over for Mike Budenholzer who ended his five seasons in Milwaukee with five NBA Playoffs appearances and a NBA Championship in 2021. Unfortunately, his failure to make long runs in the postseason over the previous two seasons ultimately led to his dismissal. While the hiring of Griffin was announced days ago, nothing was made official until today. That being said, Griffin was still in Milwaukee for meetings and to work with players.
This will be Griffin’s first head coaching job, but that does not mean he is unprepared. He already has hired former Bucks head coach Terry Stotts as an assistant. Furthermore, he has worked with several high-profile stars throughout the course of his coaching career.
Miami Heat Star Jimmy Butler Credited Milwaukee Bucks Head Coach Adrian Griffin for His Development
Long before Jimmy Butler was leading the Miami Heat on an unprecedented run in the NBA Playoffs, he was a young, difficult star for the Chicago Bulls. Butler was drafted by the Bulls in 2011, a team on which Griffin was an assistant coach. In a recent video posted by the Bucks on Twitter, a young Butler is heard praising Griffin for being a major part of why he is the player he is today:
“My job is to prepare them to win.”
Let’s get to work, Coach Griffin!! pic.twitter.com/0jIcdpx2Om
— Milwaukee Bucks (@Bucks) June 5, 2023
“But I think Adrian Griffin had a lot because he had to deal with me just being unbearable. I think he has a lot to do with who I am.”
If there is any concern that Griffin will be intimidated working with Giannis Antetokounmpo, those fears should be laid to rest. After all, Giannis met with Griffin one-on-one, inviting him to his home during the interview process, and told Bucks’ management that Griffin was the one coach he wanted.
If Griffin was able to make Butler into a borderline superstar, just imagine what he will do with someone who is already a superstar.
For More Great Wisconsin Sports Content
Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19 and follow us @WiSportsHeroics for more great content. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in Wisconsin sports, click here!
