30/01/2024
30/01/2024
DENVER, Jan 30, (AP): Doc Rivers saw the same thing coaching from the sideline Monday night as he did watching from his couch all season - a talented Milwaukee team that just needs a little more time to take shape.
Also, that Nikola Jokic continues to be next-level at everything he does.
Jokic spoiled Rivers' debut as Milwaukee coach by recording his 14th triple-double of the season to help the Denver Nuggets surge by the Bucks, 113-107.
"They’re great,” Rivers said of his new squad. "They’re a very coachable team.”
Jokic finished with 25 points, 16 rebounds and 12 assists. Jamal Murray scored 35 for the Nuggets, who gained separation during a late 8-0 run.
The game was a chance for Rivers to size up his built-to-win-now club. Bucks players made an instant impression with him - and he on them.
Rivers was lured out of his role as an analyst to take over for first-year Bucks coach Adrian Griffin, who was fired after 43 games and a 30-13 record.
Embarking on his 25th season as an NBA head coach, Rivers alternated between arms folded, hands on his knees and hands on hips in moving up and down the sideline. He kneeled at times, clapped, consulted with Joe Prunty, the interim coach before Rivers' arrival, and even showed frustration over a foul called on Brook Lopez late in the game for an illegal screen.
Rivers watched his new team squander an early 13-point lead, fall behind by nine and then fight back before Aaron Gordon ended the comeback by blocking Damian Lillard's layup attempt with 24.7 seconds remaining.The game featured 12 ties and nine lead changes.