Doc Rivers notes two other teams called for his coaching services this season

The Milwaukee Bucks' midseason hiring of Doc Rivers back in late January drew intrigue and mixed reactions in the entire NBA. While many considered it a bold and impressive move, the majority still heckled the signing, considering Doc's polarizing coaching look despite being one of the game's seasoned mentors.

Regardless of people's criticisms of his coaching reputation, some teams even considered hiring Rivers this season before the head coach ultimately committed to the Bucks.

Doc sought by two other teams to become an HC?

During the All-Star festivities, Rachel Nichols of FS1 and Showtime managed to bump into Rivers for a brief interview. In the conversation, the 62-year-old mentor revealed that his service was sought by two other teams this season before the Bucks came along.

Doc didn't name these two mysterious teams as he insisted that Milwaukee's coaching offer was way too challenging to reject amid his intent to take a one-year hiatus following his three-season leg with the Philadelphia 76ers.

"I had committed to taking a year off. I had two other teams that already called, and we weren't even taking the interview. So yeah, it was a lot, and it was like they put on a clock, not like I had a week to decide, so it was a tough one."

On Open Run, Doc Rivers tells me that before the Bucks even called him, two other teams had tried to lure him out of the broadcast booth: “I had committed to taking a year off. I had two other teams that had already called during the season that we wouldn’t even take the… pic.twitter.com/3iBleLATyQ
— Rachel Nichols (@Rachel__Nichols) February 18, 2024

A risky move

Doc served as an analyst for ESPN this season before ultimately assuming the lead coaching role for the Bucks, for which he signed a four-year deal in the $40 million range, replacing Adrian Griffin upon reports of dissatisfaction within the ball club.

From being at 30-13 with Griffin, the Bucks have gone 5-7 under the guidance of Rivers. While the learning curve has been evident, the team has meanwhile enjoyed relieving stability and defensive improvement with Doc at the helm.

In their hopes to remodify their coaching slate, the Bucks couldn't ask for the best candidate to take the job in Rivers. And as they continue the season motivated to reach their legitimate potential and championship aspirations, the only way is just truly up for them.

Doc sought by two other teams to become an HC?

A risky move

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