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Mike Budenholzer (Source: X)
Mike Budenholzer has been named the Phoenix Suns' next head coach, after the man who defeated them in the 2021 NBA finals. Budenholzer succeeds Frank Vogel, who was dismissed Thursday after one season. Budenholzer agreed to the arrangement on Friday, and the team confirmed the hire on Saturday.
Phoenix Suns did not reveal the details of the contract. As per reports, Budenholzer's contract was for five years, with The Athletic estimating a value of around $50 million. Budenholzer, who is from Holbrook, Arizona, was the Milwaukee Bucks' coach in 2021 when they rallied from a 2-0 deficit to defeat the Phoenix Suns in the Finals.
As per AP News Phoenix Suns owner Mat Ishbia said, “We’re excited to name Mike Budenholzer as the head coach of the Phoenix Suns and bring him back to his home state of Arizona.” “Mike has proven himself to be among the most successful head coaches in the NBA. He is the right leader to take us to the next level and reach our championship goals.”
Welcome, Coach Bud!
— Phoenix Suns (@Suns) May 11, 2024
Introducing Mike Budenholzer, the head coach of the Phoenix Suns 🏜️ pic.twitter.com/Krj2nR1xVP
The two-time NBA Coach of the Year will be tasked with getting the most out of the team's All-Star trio of Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal. Under Frank Vogel, the team never really clicked, finishing 49-33 before being swept by Minnesota in the first round of the playoffs.
I am honored to be named head coach of the Phoenix Suns - Mike Budenholzer
As per AP News, Mike Budenholzer states “I am honored to be named head coach of the Phoenix Suns, the team I grew up watching.” “I would like to thank Mat Ishbia, Josh Bartelstein, and James Jones for the opportunity to lead this team. I’m grateful to have a talented roster of players who are ready to compete and play a style of basketball that will bring out the best in all of them, and bring them together as we compete for championships.”
Phoenix has never won a title despite making it to the Finals three times in 56 seasons. Budenholzer was sacked by the Bucks in 2023 after five years, and he did not coach in the NBA this season. He coached the Atlanta Hawks from 2013 to 2018, compiling a 484-317 record in 10 seasons.