Doc Rivers may be new to the Milwaukee Bucks, but he has wasted no time making an impact. Just a week into his coaching tenure, Rivers has already secured a spot as the head coach for the Eastern Conference All-Star team. The NBA announced that the Bucks, with their impressive win over the Dallas Mavericks, clinched the best record in the Eastern Conference through games played until February 4th amongst teams with participating coaches.
The Eastern Conference is currently led by the Boston Celtics with a record of 37-12. However, their head coach, Joe Mazzulla, was already given the opportunity to coach in last year's All-Star Game. Consequently, Mazzulla is ineligible to participate in this year's festivities. The Milwaukee Bucks, under Rivers' guidance, hold the second-best record in the East at 33-16.
Rivers took on the role of Bucks coach just last week, leaving his position as an ESPN analyst to replace the recently fired Adrian Griffin. With Rivers at the helm, the Bucks have achieved a record of 1-2, showcasing early signs of potential growth.
This upcoming All-Star Game will mark the fourth time that Doc Rivers has been chosen to serve as a head coach. Previously, he had the honor in 2008, 2011, and most recently, in 2021. His selection is a testament to his coaching prowess and the overall strength of the Milwaukee Bucks this season.
The All-Star Game, set to take place on February 18th, will be held in Indianapolis. Fans and players alike will eagerly anticipate the showcase of talent and the guidance of Doc Rivers as he leads the Eastern Conference All-Stars against their Western Conference counterparts.