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Published in Business and Finance on Wednesday, August 6th 2025 at 14:39 GMT by HoopsHype
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A Carroll native who's currently coaching the

A Carroll Native Who's Currently Coaching the Milwaukee Bucks: The Rise of Assistant Coach DeMarre Carroll

In the ever-evolving world of NBA coaching, stories of former players transitioning seamlessly into leadership roles on the sidelines are becoming increasingly common. One such compelling narrative is that of DeMarre Carroll, a native of Birmingham, Alabama, where he honed his skills at John Carroll Catholic High School. Carroll's journey from a gritty, undersized forward in the league to a respected assistant coach with the Milwaukee Bucks exemplifies the grit, determination, and basketball IQ that define successful NBA careers. As of the 2024-25 season, Carroll has been making waves in Milwaukee, contributing to the team's defensive strategies and player development under head coach Doc Rivers. This article delves into Carroll's background, his playing career, his coaching philosophy, and the rumors swirling around his potential future as a head coach.

Born on July 27, 1986, in Birmingham, DeMarre Carroll grew up in a community that valued hard work and perseverance. Attending John Carroll Catholic High School, he quickly stood out as a versatile athlete, excelling in basketball with his tenacious defense and relentless energy. His high school years laid the foundation for a college career that saw him play for Vanderbilt University before transferring to the University of Missouri. At Missouri, Carroll averaged impressive numbers, showcasing his ability to score, rebound, and defend multiple positions—a skill set that would later define his professional identity. Drafted by the Memphis Grizzlies in the first round of the 2009 NBA Draft (27th overall), Carroll's entry into the league was anything but smooth. He bounced around teams, including stints with the Grizzlies, Houston Rockets, and Denver Nuggets, often relegated to the G League or short-term contracts. It wasn't until he joined the Atlanta Hawks in 2013 that Carroll truly found his footing.

Under head coach Mike Budenholzer with the Hawks, Carroll became a key starter on a 60-win team in the 2014-15 season. Known as "Junkyard Dog" for his scrappy play, he averaged around 12 points and 5 rebounds per game, providing elite perimeter defense against stars like LeBron James. His performance earned him a lucrative four-year, $60 million contract with the Toronto Raptors in 2015, where he continued to be a defensive anchor. However, injuries plagued the latter part of his playing career, including hip issues that limited his effectiveness during tenures with the Brooklyn Nets and San Antonio Spurs. Carroll retired in 2020 after a brief stint with the Houston Rockets, having played 578 games over 11 seasons, amassing career averages of 8.9 points, 4.2 rebounds, and a reputation as one of the league's most reliable role players.

Transitioning to coaching seemed like a natural progression for Carroll, who had always been vocal about his love for the game's intricacies. In 2022, he joined the Los Angeles Lakers as a player development coach, working closely with young talents and drawing on his experiences as a journeyman to mentor players on resilience and adaptability. His time with the Lakers was marked by positive feedback from stars like Anthony Davis, who praised Carroll's ability to break down defensive schemes. By 2024, Carroll had moved to the Milwaukee Bucks as an assistant coach, focusing on defense and forward development. Under Doc Rivers, who took over mid-season in 2023-24, Carroll has been instrumental in refining the Bucks' defensive identity. Milwaukee, boasting stars like Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard, has relied on Carroll's expertise to address perimeter vulnerabilities that plagued them in previous playoffs. Insiders note that Carroll's hands-on approach—often seen in film sessions emphasizing hustle plays and positioning—has helped younger players like MarJon Beauchamp and Andre Jackson Jr. improve their defensive reads.

Rumors have been heating up about Carroll's future in the NBA coaching landscape. As of August 2025, sources close to the league suggest that several teams with head coaching vacancies might consider him for promotions. His name has been linked to potential openings with rebuilding franchises like the Charlotte Hornets or Detroit Pistons, where his player development skills could shine. One anonymous scout told HoopsHype, "DeMarre's got that rare blend of relatability and tactical acumen. He's been through the grinder as a player, so he connects with guys on a personal level, but he also understands modern analytics and how to implement them." Carroll's coaching philosophy emphasizes "controlled chaos"—a term he uses to describe defensive schemes that disrupt offenses without overcommitting, much like his playing style. He draws inspiration from coaches like Budenholzer and Quin Snyder, under whom he played, blending traditional grit with data-driven adjustments.

Beyond his on-court contributions, Carroll is known for his off-court impact. A devoted family man and philanthropist, he founded the Carroll Family Foundation, which supports youth programs in Birmingham, providing scholarships and basketball clinics. His story resonates with aspiring coaches from non-traditional backgrounds, proving that persistence can lead to success even without All-Star pedigrees. In interviews, Carroll often reflects on his Carroll roots, crediting the tight-knit community for instilling values like teamwork and humility. "Growing up in Birmingham taught me that nothing's given—you earn it every day," he said in a recent podcast appearance.

As the 2025-26 season approaches, all eyes are on Carroll and the Bucks. With Milwaukee aiming for another championship run, his role could expand, potentially positioning him for head coaching interviews. Whether he stays in Milwaukee or moves elsewhere, DeMarre Carroll's journey from a Carroll native to an NBA coaching staple is a testament to the league's meritocratic nature. His story isn't just about basketball; it's about reinvention, mentorship, and the enduring spirit of those who refuse to be defined by their origins. As rumors continue to swirl, one thing is clear: DeMarre Carroll is no longer just a former player—he's a rising force in NBA coaching circles, poised to leave an indelible mark on the next generation of talent. (Word count: 852)

Read the Full HoopsHype Article at:
[ https://www.hoopshype.com/story/sports/nba/rumors/2025/08/06/a-carroll-native-whos-currently-coaching-the/85544634007/ ]

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A Carrollnativewhoscurrentlycoachingthea

A Carroll Native Who's Currently Coaching the Milwaukee Bucks: The Rise of Assistant Coach DeMarre Carroll