LeBron James’ LA Lakers secured their first preseason victory on Thursday, defeating their ex-coach Darvin Ham’s Milwaukee Bucks 107-102 at Fiserv Forum. Afterward, one of James’ friends comically trolled Bucks coach Doc Rivers and Ham, his lead assistant.
Ham has been the subject of criticism since LA fired him in early May and replaced him with rookie coach JJ Redick. Several Lakers players have seemingly taken subtle shots at Ham’s coaching schemes, with reports emerging that he lost the veteran squad’s locker room last season. Conversely, players have praised Redick for his preparation and attention to detail.While Ham is no longer a head coach, he rebounded as Milwaukee’s top assistant over the offseason, latching onto one of the Eastern Conference’s premier contenders. Thus, he got a chance for redemption against LA ahead of the 2024-25 NBA regular season.
Ham has been the subject of criticism since LA fired him in early May and replaced him with rookie coach JJ Redick. Several Lakers players have seemingly taken subtle shots at Ham’s coaching schemes, with reports emerging that he lost the veteran squad’s locker room last season. Conversely, players have praised Redick for his preparation and attention to detail.While Ham is no longer a head coach, he rebounded as Milwaukee’s top assistant over the offseason, latching onto one of the Eastern Conference’s premier contenders. Thus, he got a chance for redemption against LA ahead of the 2024-25 NBA regular season.
Hosting the Lakers for their second preseason outing on Thursday, the Bucks suffered a five-point loss. While both squad’s reserves received extended minutes, that didn’t stop James’ companion Cuffs The Legend from taking a shot at Rivers and Ham.
He posted a clip from the contest on Instagram featuring the oft-criticized coaching duo appearing anxious and confused on the sideline. In his caption, he quipped about Rivers and Ham’s lack of intelligence.
