Bucks GM Jon Horst Shares Promising Message to Milwaukee Fans

The Milwaukee Bucks are striding confidently into a new era after an offseason of major change, but while rebuilds bring a level of uncertainty to any team, the Bucks feel steady in the decision they've made to get the team into a new place. 

This process has been a long time coming, ever since the first seeds of doubt were planted in forward Giannis Antetokounmpo's future in Milwaukee in the beginning of last season.

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After finally trading Antetokounmpo to the Miami Heat in exchange for a haul that included guards Tyler Herro and Kasparas Jakucionis, forward Jaime Jaquez Jr., center Kel'el Ware and several draft picks, the Bucks have taken a major step into reshaping the identity of the team, a process that is very much still in the making. 

They expanded on that process with an excellent 2026 Draft, highlighted by the additions of guard Brayden Burries and forward Nate Ament, who both impressed during Summer League and project to have major roles within the roster this season despite their rookie statuses. 

Miami Heat forward Jaime Jaquez Jr. (11) protects the basketball from Boston Celtics guard Derrick White (9) during the second quarter at Kaseya Center. Sam Navarro-Imagn ImagesA Busy Offseason

That doesn't mean that the Bucks are done with their rebuild, but the first step in that process is often one of the most pivotal. In that regard the Bucks are confident in the work that's been done. 

"We talked a lot about having a successful offseason, executing a successful draft, hiring a great coach as the pillars of our focus when the season ended last year. We sit here today feeling like we accomplished a number of those things," Bucks general manager Jon Horst said (via Bucks Lead on X). "We're excited about it."

Milwaukee Bucks general manager Jon Horst (left) introduces new head coach Taylor Jenkins at a press conference at Milwaukee Art Museum. Benny Sieu-Imagn Images

The biggest addition the Bucks made to the team isn't even one who will be wearing a jersey this season. After a lackluster tenure in Milwaukee from former head coach Doc Rivers, who was fired at the end of last season, the Bucks turned to former Memphis Grizzlies head coach Taylor Jenkins to guide them. 

What Jenkins Adds

Jenkins appeared next to Horst during Media Day as Horst gave his confident statement, and Jenkins himself does seem to be the highlight of the offseason in Horst's eyes.

Milwaukee Bucks introduce new head coach Taylor Jenkins speaks at a press conference at Milwaukee Art Museum. Benny Sieu-Imagn Images

Milwaukee's new had coach has been lauded for his ability to develop young talent, a trait that is obviously crucial for a rebuilding team, and his time in Memphis is proof that Jenkins is experienced in turning around a team.

Beyond the raw talent that the Bucks have addd, there's also an intangible energy around the team that has Horst feeling encouraged, which itself a trait the Bucks have been sorely lacking.

Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant (12) talks with head coach Taylor Jenkins during the first half against the Phoenix Suns at Footprint Center. Joe Camporeale-Imagn ImagesA Cultural Shift

"There's a great level of energy and excitement, buy-in, collectively with the group, and that gives us a foundation to build from," Horst said. "Everything we're going to do today and going forward, is building, competing and building a group and trying to do it together each and every day".

Milwaukee Bucks guard Gary Trent Jr. (5) poses for a photo during Media Day. Michael McLoone-Imagn Images

In part due to Antetokounmpo's public criticisms of the team last season and partly because of the team's struggles, the energy around the roster last season was severely lacking. 

But with so much new blood within the organization after such a productive summer, the culture has no choice but to change. Based on Horst's comment at least, that change has been for the better.

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