The NBA Cup is quickly becoming a stage where hidden talents shine, and for the Milwaukee Bucks, their top assistant coach, Darvin Ham, is proving to be a master of the tournament. After the Bucks secured a 97-81 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder to clinch the title, Bucks head coach Doc Rivers couldn’t help but acknowledge Ham’s remarkable, undefeated streak in the NBA Cup.

In his post-game comments, Rivers referred to Ham as the team's "secret weapon," a title that has become synonymous with his continued dominance in the tournament. But it’s not just Ham who is reaping the rewards of his past successes; his former Lakers' player, Taurean Prince, has also carried his own undefeated legacy into the Bucks' 2024 campaign.

Darvin Ham: A Winning Streak Across Two Teams

Darvin Ham has made a significant mark on the NBA Cup. Prior to his time with the Bucks, Ham was the head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers, where he led them to victory in the NBA’s inaugural In-Season Tournament in 2023. After two seasons with the Lakers, Ham was relieved of his duties and joined Doc Rivers’s coaching staff in Milwaukee.

Now, after guiding the Bucks to their second NBA Cup title in 2024, Ham stands with an undefeated 14-0 record in NBA Cup play. His consistency and success in this short but high-stakes competition have earned him widespread recognition in the basketball world, with his ability to lead teams to victory making him one of the most talked-about coaches in the tournament.

A Legendary Streak: Ham's Undefeated NBA Cup Record

Ham's perfect record in NBA Cup play—spanning two seasons and two different teams—has become a defining narrative in the early days of this tournament. The Milwaukee Bucks’ win over the Oklahoma City Thunder marked not only their dominance in the 2024 NBA Cup but also cemented Ham's status as an untouchable force in this competition.

In the post-game press conference, Doc Rivers couldn’t contain his excitement about having Ham on his staff.

“By the way, we brought our secret weapon,” Rivers said with a smile. “Darvin Ham is now an undefeated coach in two years in this cup.”

It was clear that Rivers viewed Ham as a crucial asset to the Bucks’ success. His leadership on the court, especially during high-pressure moments, seems to be the difference-maker for the Bucks, and Rivers believes that this winning streak could continue for years to come.

Taurean Prince: The Undefeated Player

While Darvin Ham has been the mastermind behind the Bucks’ NBA Cup success, Taurean Prince, a forward who joined the Bucks this season, is not far behind. Prince was part of the Lakers' successful 2023 campaign and has now joined the Bucks, continuing his undefeated streak in NBA Cup play.

During Rivers's post-game interview, he was quick to acknowledge Prince’s contribution, noting that the forward’s own perfect record in NBA Cup play should not go unnoticed.

“When I said that (about Ham),” Rivers continued, referring to Ham's undefeated record. “Prince was like, 'what about me?' and he's an undefeated player, so that's pretty cool for them."

Prince’s impressive track record is another key factor for the Bucks, as his experience and success in the tournament add a layer of veteran savvy to the roster. With both Ham and Prince’s combined records, the Bucks are now a team to be reckoned with in the NBA Cup, having established themselves as one of the most successful squads in the competition's young history.

What Makes the NBA Cup So Special?

The NBA Cup, still in its infancy, has already proven to be a unique and thrilling competition for players and coaches alike. It’s more than just a regular-season tournament; the NBA Cup is a chance for teams to prove their mettle in a high-stakes, fast-paced environment that tests not only their skill but also their mental toughness.

For coaches like Darvin Ham, who have already made their mark, the NBA Cup is an opportunity to flex their tactical muscles and demonstrate their ability to lead a team under intense pressure. As a new competition, the NBA Cup presents fresh challenges and excitement for all involved, giving teams the chance to showcase their abilities on a different platform.

Why the NBA Cup Matters for the Bucks

For the Milwaukee Bucks, the NBA Cup win is a testament to the effectiveness of their coaching staff and roster. With Doc Rivers at the helm and Darvin Ham serving as a tactical mastermind, the Bucks have proven that they are a force to be reckoned with.

Having players like Taurean Prince, who brings a wealth of experience, only enhances the Bucks' chances of continued success in the NBA Cup. With an undefeated streak between Ham and Prince, the Bucks are poised to be dominant forces in the years to come.

Looking Ahead: Can Ham and Prince Repeat Their Success?

As the Bucks look to the future, the question on everyone’s mind is: Can Ham and Prince continue their undefeated streak in the NBA Cup? With their solid track records and a team that seems to gel on all fronts, the Bucks are well-positioned to defend their title.

Doc Rivers, who clearly sees the value in his coaching staff and roster, will likely rely on his "secret weapons" to help lead the Bucks to future success. With a combination of coaching brilliance, veteran players, and a competitive spirit, the Bucks could dominate not only the NBA Cup but also the regular season and playoffs in the coming years.