The Milwaukee Bucks have largely under-achieved in recent years. Finishing with a 15-67 record last year, good for the worst in the league, many had given up on the Bucks. The team was not experiencing success, and their contract with the BMO Harris Bradley Center would expire in 2017. The NBA told the Bucks that they needed to build a new arena, or the NBA could buy the team and relocate the franchise. Everything was falling apart. Yet, the fortunes for this Wisconsin team have changed drastically. Now, under new ownership, with a new coaching staff, and young talent leading the way, this team may finally have something to cheer about.
Perhaps the most frustrating thing about the Bucks was their lack of direction. Constantly, in a state of rebuilding, the team often seemed unfocused. They would draft talented players, only to exchange them with unproven players. They would find a player, such as Brandon Jennings, and begin to build around him. Of course, Jennings did not agree with their vision, and eventually left the team in costless agency. They would give a player a large contract extension, only to regret it. Yes, Larry Sanders, you are a prime example. The Bucks' inability to be consistent and make sound decisions has held them back from being successful.
However, the Bucks have had an exciting offseason that may be the start of something great. Previous owner Herb Kohl sold the team to a group led by Wesley Edens and Marc Lasry. Edens and Lasry have begun actively searching for investors for a new arena, and the team is supposed to be announcing the new location in November. Giannis Antetokounmpo and Jabari Parker have been slated to lead the team, and Parker even stated that he would like to remain with one team for the majority of his career. Finally, Jason Kidd will be at the helm as head coach, a bold move for Milwaukee.
This offseason has offered Milwaukee a lot of hope. While this team is certainly not a championship caliber team, it is a team that is loaded with potential. Finally taking risks and investing in a future, the Bucks have found a direction. The Bucks are moving forward, and that is something to celebrate.