Darvin Ham’s success in back-to-back NBA Cup titles has basketball fans buzzing about his influence on winning teams.
A Journey from Head Coach to Assistant
The 2023-24 NBA season marked a milestone for Darvin Ham as head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers. Ham led the team to an impressive victory in the inaugural NBA Cup, completing a flawless 7-0 record in the tournament. Despite this achievement, the Lakers’ season ended on a sour note—a 47-35 regular season record and a disappointing first-round playoff exit. This led to Ham’s departure as head coach.
After leaving Los Angeles, Ham transitioned to a new chapter in Milwaukee, joining the Bucks as an assistant coach under Doc Rivers. Though a change in title, Ham’s winning mindset remained intact.
Bucks’ NBA Cup Triumph
Fast forward to December, and Darvin Ham found himself back in familiar territory—hoisting another NBA Cup trophy. The Milwaukee Bucks clinched the championship with a 97-81 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder. Giannis Antetokounmpo spearheaded the win with a sensational triple-double, tallying 26 points, 19 rebounds, and 10 assists.
The Bucks’ perfect 7-0 record in the tournament mirrored the path Ham had forged with the Lakers the previous year. While he played a supporting role this time, Ham’s influence as part of the coaching staff was undeniable.
Fans React to Ham’s Streak
Darvin Ham’s undefeated record in the NBA Cup sparked an outpouring of reactions across social media.
“Love him or hate him, we still got to give respect to the 2-time NBA Cup champion, Darvin Ham,” one fan remarked.
Others highlighted Ham’s back-to-back success, suggesting he’s become synonymous with the tournament. “They gonna call it the Darvin Ham trophy,” one commenter joked, while another compared his dominance to that of basketball legends: “NBA Cup Darvin Ham = Prime MJ.”
A Winning Formula
While leading a team as head coach is different from contributing as an assistant, Darvin Ham has proven his knack for contributing to winning cultures. His presence has now helped two teams achieve NBA Cup perfection in consecutive years.
Ham’s journey from the Lakers to the Bucks demonstrates resilience and adaptability, solidifying his reputation as a tactician capable of fostering championship success. Fans may debate his ultimate legacy, but one fact remains clear: Darvin Ham is a name etched into NBA Cup history.
A Legacy in the Making
Darvin Ham’s undefeated streak in the NBA Cup is more than just a statistic—it’s a testament to his strategic mind and ability to thrive in high-pressure environments. Whether as a head coach or assistant, Ham has shown he knows how to win, making his future in the league one to watch closely.