It appears that Darvin Ham is sticking around with the Milwaukee Bucks. Again. Per The Athletic's Eric Nehm, Ham is expected to join Taylor Jenkins' staff for the 2026-27 season. This shouldn't come as a total shock, given how prominent Ham has been in Milwaukee for years. No matter what happens with Giannis Antetokounmpo in the coming weeks, this feels like a fine decision.
Players love what Darvin Ham brings
Ham, who spent plenty of time in this league as a player, has always had a strong voice in the Bucks' locker room. From young players to veterans, everyone has always respected what the eight-season veteran brings to the table. Amidst all of the chaos taking place in Milwaukee, it won't hurt to keep one of the more respected faces in town.
To further understand Ham's impact, Bobby Portis has always raved about him. In 2023, after an early exit by Milwaukee, Portis discussed how losing Ham, who was coaching the Los Angeles Lakers, was a big blow to the team. When Ham returned as an assistant, the big man said the team would be "fired up" to help take down the Lakers for Ham. That's someone the players care about.
Lol they thinking this 2k. Only thing hurt us was D ham leaving. That ain’t talked about enough. https://t.co/6MbmVueZtC
— Bobby BP Portis (@BPortistime) May 17, 2023
Whether the Milwaukee Bucks move forward with Giannis Antetokounmpo or trade him, keeping Ham is justifiable. If the Greek Freak stays, great. Ham is a recognizable voice who has been around for the longest time. If he leaves, Ham can still bring his savvy presence to the table to help unearth the new core Milwaukee fills out the roster with. It's a win-win.
Ham's role is next domino as staff fills out
Ham will be on the staff, but it will be interesting to see if he retains his title of lead assistant. He's held that title since 2024, and while it would make sense to keep him there, that could be up to Jenkins as he fills out his staff. Per Nehm, the team has also added Patrick St. Andrews and Joe Boylan. More are expected to join soon enough.
The experience and familiarity Ham provides would make him a fine lead assistant. This is someone who played in the league and has been an assistant since 2011. He was also a head coach, having a stint with the Los Angeles Lakers, as mentioned. The 2004 NBA Champion was also a candidate to become New Orleans' coach this summer before they went in another direction.
Helping Ham's case to take on a more important role is his familiarity with Jenkins, as the two have worked together as assistants under Mike Budenholzer, both in Atlanta and Milwaukee.
No matter where he lands on the staff, keeping Darvin Ham is a fine move.
Stay tuned for more Milwaukee Bucks analysis.
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