As the Milwaukee Bucks prepare for their upcoming training camp, the team has been busy finalizing their roster and making key organizational appointments. The latest news includes the signing of veteran big man Jake Stephens and the election of center Myles Turner to a prominent leadership position within the National Basketball Players Association. Concurrently, the Wisconsin Herd, the Bucks' G League affiliate, has welcomed Schuyler Rimmer as its new head coach, indicating a focus on both player development and administrative strength.
Bucks Strengthen Roster with Jake Stephens; Turner Joins NBPA Executive
In a strategic move to reinforce their lineup, the Milwaukee Bucks officially signed Jake Stephens, a 26-year-old formidable center, as they geared up for training camp, set to commence on September 29th. Stephens brings valuable international experience, having recently played 61 games for KK Split in both the Croatian A-1 and Adriatic ABA leagues. During his tenure, he showcased his capabilities by averaging 9.1 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 1.1 assists over approximately 16 minutes per game, maintaining an impressive 54.2% field goal percentage. Before his professional career took him overseas, Stephens honed his skills for four seasons at the Virginia Military Institute (2018-2022) and one season at Tennessee-Chattanooga (2022-2023). Although he went undrafted in 2023, his talent led him to the G League, where he played 41 games for the Capital City Go-Go and Stockton Kings. The 2024-25 season saw him continue his professional journey with Monbus Obradoiro in the Spanish Primera FEB and FMP Beograd in the Adriatic League ABA.
In parallel, the Milwaukee Bucks announced a significant leadership appointment for the Wisconsin Herd, their G League affiliate. Schuyler Rimmer, initially slated as an assistant coach on Taylor Jenkins' staff for the main Bucks team, has been named the head coach for the Herd. This dual role will see Rimmer serving both capacities for the 2026-27 season, bringing his experience from his previous role as an assistant coach for the NBA G League's Maine Celtics last season. Meanwhile, Bucks center Myles Turner has ascended to a vital role off the court, being elected as a Vice President for the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA). His three-year term began immediately, placing him alongside other esteemed players like Karl-Anthony Towns, Gabe Vincent, Santi Aldama, Jaylen Brown, and Trey Murphy III on the union's executive committee. Turner expressed his enthusiasm for this new challenge, stating, "I am thrilled to join the executive committee at such a pivotal time for our league and am prepared to take on this leadership role within the PA. It's an honor to be voted in by my peers, and I am committed to advancing the priorities that matter most to the players across the league."
These developments reflect the Bucks' multifaceted approach to strengthening their organization, from acquiring skilled players to fostering leadership both on and off the court. The addition of Stephens provides valuable depth, while Turner's election to the NBPA underscores the team's commitment to player representation and welfare. Rimmer's appointment to the Wisconsin Herd further emphasizes the franchise's dedication to developing talent and maintaining a strong pipeline of players and coaches.
