Milwaukee Bucks: 30 Most Significant Moments In Franchise History
By Adam McGee
9. Hiring Don Nelson
Replacing a legendary coach is one of the most difficult tasks in all of sport. There aren’t many decisions that can prove more costly, as if the ownership gets it wrong, the good work done by the previous man in the job can be reset in no time at all.
After the Bucks started the 1976-77 season 3-15, former championship winning coach Larry Costello was fired. The Bucks decided to replace him with Don Nelson who had only recently retired as a player with the Boston Celtics, and it proved to be a masterstroke.
Nelson was in touch with what NBA players wanted from their coach, and innovative in terms of implementing strategy and playing style. His work on the sidelines and in the front office was a big part of the reason why Milwaukee won 50 games in seven straight seasons during the 80s. A truly remarkable basketball mind.
Next: 8. Record Win Streak