Turner cites disciplinary void under Rivers as Bucks pivot to Jenkins
Myles Turner’s comments on the team’s internal culture come as the franchise prepares for a new coaching era and potential roster changes ahead of the NBA draft.
Milwaukee Bucks centre Myles Turner has publicly detailed a significant breakdown in discipline during Doc Rivers’ tenure, stating on his podcast that the former coach “didn’t fine anybody ever.” Turner, speaking alongside New York Liberty forward Breanna Stewart on the “Game Recognize Game” podcast, described a culture where players frequently missed meetings and arrived late to flights, noting that franchise star Giannis Antetokounmpo would “show up whenever he wants.”
The comments underscore the institutional disconnect that characterised the Bucks’ 32-50 season, which ended a nine-year playoff streak and led to Rivers’ departure. Turner, who joined Milwaukee on a four-year, $108.9 million contract from the Indiana Pacers last offseason, said he initially struggled with the lax standards but eventually adapted to avoid being the only player on time. He recounted instances of team members arriving an hour late to planes, a practice he noted was tolerated without penalty.
Prior to the end of Rivers’ tenure, ESPN reported on a season-long rift between the coach and the roster, citing low-effort practices and an awkward team meeting in March where Rivers issued an ultimatum to his players. Turner’s assessment of the environment aligns with these reports, contrasting the disorder in Milwaukee with previous teams where lateness to treatment, film sessions, or travel resulted in immediate fines.
The franchise has since hired former Memphis Grizzlies coach Taylor Jenkins, a former Milwaukee assistant, to replace Rivers. Turner indicated he will observe how the new coaching regime handles discipline, suggesting that the shift in leadership may restore a sense of order that was absent during the previous season. “We’ll see what Taylor Jenkins does,” Turner said, noting that he had not experienced such a lack of accountability in his career prior to his time in Milwaukee.
As the Bucks look to rebuild, the organisation is also evaluating its future with Antetokounmpo, who led the team to an NBA title in 2021. League and team sources have indicated the Bucks are open to trade discussions for the two-time MVP, with Antetokounmpo reportedly wanting to move on. A resolution regarding his future is expected before the June 23-24 NBA draft.
