In a surprising turn of events, Adrian Griffin, the former head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks who was dismissed in January 2024 after just 43 games, recently made a visit to the team’s facilities, sparking speculation about his intentions and potential future in the NBA.
Griffin, who led the Bucks to a 30-13 record before his abrupt firing, was spotted at Fiserv Forum earlier this week. Sources close to the team indicate that the visit was informal, with Griffin meeting with some former players and staff members. While the exact purpose of the visit remains unclear, it has fueled discussions among fans and analysts about whether Griffin is seeking closure, exploring reconciliation, or possibly discussing a new role within the organization or elsewhere in the league.
### A Brief Tenure with High Expectations
Griffin was hired in June 2023 to replace Mike Budenholzer, who led the Bucks to their first NBA championship in 50 years in 2021. Tasked with coaching a star-studded roster featuring Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard, Griffin faced immense pressure to deliver a championship. Despite the team’s strong 30-13 start, second-best in the NBA at the time, internal issues reportedly led to his dismissal. Reports cited a disconnect between Griffin and key players, including Antetokounmpo, as well as defensive struggles, with the Bucks’ defensive rating dropping to 22nd in the league compared to fourth the previous season.[](https://www.nba.com/news/bucks-part-ways-coach-adrian-griffin)[](https://sports.yahoo.com/bucks-fire-head-coach-adrian-griffin-reportedly-negotiating-with-doc-rivers-to-replace-him-004129419.html)
Notable incidents, such as the resignation of assistant coach Terry Stotts before the season and public criticism from players like Bobby Portis, highlighted tensions within the team. Griffin’s aggressive defensive schemes, which moved away from the team’s established drop-coverage system, also drew scrutiny.[](https://www.cbssports.com/nba/news/why-the-bucks-fired-a-coach-who-won-70-of-his-games-nine-incidents-that-led-to-adrian-griffins-dismissal/)[](https://clutchpoints.com/nba/milwaukee-bucks/bucks-news-reasons-behind-adrian-griffin-firing)
In a statement to Bleacher Report following his firing, Griffin expressed gratitude for the opportunity, saying, “I appreciate the opportunity the Bucks gave me. You can’t control everything. I feel good about the job we did.” He also voiced hope for another head coaching opportunity, noting, “I always wanted to be a head coach in this league. I couldn’t have asked for a better roster.”[](https://www.si.com/nba/2024/01/24/adrian-griffin-breaks-silence-after-getting-fired-bucks)
### The Visit: What Does It Mean?
While the Bucks have since moved forward under new head coach Doc Rivers, Griffin’s visit has raised eyebrows. Some speculate it could signal an attempt to mend relationships with players like Antetokounmpo, who was reportedly involved in the decision to hire Griffin but later lost faith in his leadership. Others believe Griffin may be exploring assistant coaching roles or simply reconnecting with colleagues from his earlier stint as an assistant with the Bucks from 2008-2010.[](https://bleacherreport.com/articles/10106332-adrian-griffin-fired-as-bucks-hc-after-43-games-doc-rivers-reportedly-linked-to-job)[](https://www.channel3000.com/news/bucks-fire-head-coach-adrian-griffin-after-less-than-a-season-in-charge/article_d2cc0e54-ba26-11ee-9ece-fb95b5826327.html)
The Bucks organization has remained tight-lipped about the visit. General manager Jon Horst, who made the decision to fire Griffin, is scheduled to address the media later this week, and questions about Griffin’s appearance are likely to arise. For now, the team is focused on the upcoming 2025-26 season, with championship aspirations still high following their roster adjustments and Rivers’ leadership.
### Looking Ahead
Griffin’s brief but eventful tenure with the Bucks remains one of the shortest in NBA history for a full-time head coach. His visit to Milwaukee could be a step toward rebuilding his reputation in the league or simply a personal gesture to close a challenging chapter. As the Bucks prepare for the new season, the spotlight will remain on their pursuit of another title, while Griffin’s next move—whether coaching or otherwise—will be closely watched by NBA insiders.
