The Milwaukee Bucks have officially named Taylor Jenkins as their new head coach, making a splashy announcement that signals a pivotal new chapter for the franchise. Jenkins, who previously led the Memphis Grizzlies from 2019 to 2025, brings a proven track record of success to a team at a crossroads.
In a move designed to energize fans, the Bucks will introduce Jenkins at a public news conference on Wednesday, May 6, at 2 p.m. at the Milwaukee Art Museum, overlooking the lakefront. The event is open to the public, space permitting, offering a rare chance for supporters to welcome their new leader in person.
The decision comes at a critical time for Milwaukee, with superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo's future looming large. General Manager Jon Horst expressed confidence in Jenkins, calling him "an innovative and driven coach who embodies the culture of winning and hard work." Horst added that Jenkins' "basketball intellect, comprehensive experience, and leadership ability" make him the right fit to elevate the team.
Jenkins boasts an impressive resume from his six seasons in Memphis, where he compiled a 250-214 record (.539 winning percentage) and guided the Grizzlies to four playoff appearances. His crowning achievement came in the 2021-22 season when the team set a franchise record with 56 wins. Before that, he served as an assistant coach under Mike Budenholzer for the Bucks' 2018-19 squad, which won 60 games and reached the Eastern Conference Finals, marking the franchise's first playoff-series victories since 2001.
"My family and I are thrilled to return to Milwaukee," Jenkins said. "I know firsthand how important this team is to Bucks fans and the city of Milwaukee, and I'm so excited to get to work."
The 41-year-old Dallas native becomes the 19th head coach in Bucks history, and his return to a familiar city adds a layer of continuity and promise. As the offseason unfolds, all eyes will be on how Jenkins shapes the roster and culture around Antetokounmpo, aiming to build on the Bucks' recent successes and chase another championship run.