The Phoenix Suns have officially tapped Mike Budenholzer, who was born in Arizona, to lead their squad as the new head coach. During a press conference held last Friday, Budenholzer, who has garnered respect by helming the Milwaukee Bucks to an NBA Finals victory in 2021, was presented to the Suns' community. A report from ABC15 mentioned that Budenholzer will be the team's third head coach in as many seasons, a testament to the franchise's tumultuous search for the right sideline leader.
Phoenix, seeking stability after a disappointing sweep by Minnesota in the first round of the playoffs, parted ways with Frank Vogel after only a year at the helm. Under Vogel, the Suns managed a decent 49-33 record despite a spate of injuries, but the postseason collapse sealed his fate. As per a statement obtained by ABC15, Budenholzer's experience with the San Antonio Spurs, Atlanta Hawks, and the Bucks makes him a seasoned replacement to turn the Suns' fortunes.
Budenholzer, known among the basketball world as "Coach Bud," expressed his eagerness to grab the reins during the presser. In an interview with AZ Family, he said, "His passion and commitment for winning, to the players, to the organization, to this city has been off the charts. He’s been beyond impressive,” attributing his decision in part to team and owner Mat Ishbia's vision. He also made it clear that while he's enthusiastic about the potential for chasing championships in Phoenix, real success comes from the daily grind: "Talking about championships is kind of meaningless. At the end of the day, talk is cheap. What you do every day is powerful."
The hire comes shortly after news of Vogel's firing, following a season the organization labeled as "way below our expectations." In a move reported by ESPN Senior Insider Adrian Wojnarowski, Budenholzer, who is coming onboard on a reportedly lucrative five-year deal, was seen as a prime candidate to usher in a new era for the Suns. Vogel, despite a commendable regular season, could not translate success to the playoffs, leading to his dismissal – and opening the door for Budenholzer's homecoming. This story was confirmed by a report from AZ Family.
The Arizona native and multiple-time Coach of the Year recipient is no stranger to the Suns franchise or their fanbase, having competed against Phoenix in the Bucks' championship run. Suns fans may have mixed feelings about welcoming a coach who once stood in their way of glory, but with a decorated coaching resume and a clear vision for the team, Budenholzer aims to lead Phoenix back to the pinnacle of the NBA.
