Rivers Criticizes Antetokounmpo’s Execution, Kidd Disagrees

Doc Rivers said Giannis Antetokounmpo is difficult to coach and needs to improve his execution, while acknowledging the Miami Heat forward’s passing ability. Rivers made the comments while reflecting on his time as Antetokounmpo’s coach with the Milwaukee Bucks, prompting a public disagreement from former Bucks coach Jason Kidd and criticism from ESPN personalities Cam’ron and Stephen A. Smith. On the Bill Simmons Podcast, Rivers said Antetokounmpo plays at a forceful, downhill pace and does not necessarily have a “super IQ,” despite his ability to pass. He said Antetokounmpo needed to learn the value of executing plays in practice and shootarounds, rather than relying on individual talent to create results. Rivers also said he had discussed execution with Antetokounmpo directly. Rivers praised Antetokounmpo’s vision and described him as an extraordinary passer, but said his feel with the ball could be inconsistent. He also discussed the challenges of finding the right positioning and role for Antetokounmpo, including whether he should handle the ball or play as a roller. Rivers said the forward’s defense and athletic dominance had declined, although those assessments were his...