Mike Budenholzer, a highly successful coach who was fired by the Milwaukee Bucks in the spring of 2023, has now been hired as the head coach of the Phoenix Suns following the dismissal of Frank Vogel after one season. The Suns moved quickly to secure Budenholzer, who they believed was the right fit for their team amid other coaching vacancies in the league. Budenholzer, a two-time NBA Coach of the Year, has an impressive track record of success, including leading the Bucks to an NBA championship in 2021.
The Phoenix Suns may have had an advantage in recruiting Budenholzer, as he grew up as a fan of the team in Holbrook, Arizona, and has deep roots in the basketball community there. Budenholzer’s father is a Hall of Fame high school coach in Arizona, and his ties to the state likely played a role in his decision to join the Suns. The team’s management expressed confidence in Budenholzer’s ability to lead them to a championship, pointing to his championship pedigree and success as a head coach.
Budenholzer’s hiring comes at a time when the Suns are looking to solidify their core roster, which includes star players Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal. The team has high expectations for the upcoming season and believes that Budenholzer’s coaching style will bring out the best in their players. Despite rumors of potential trades involving Durant, the Suns are committed to keeping their star trio intact and are focused on competing for a championship under Budenholzer’s leadership.
The Suns face challenges in managing their expensive roster and addressing key areas of need, such as point guard play and a physical backup center. Vogel, the previous head coach, was criticized for his handling of Durant and the team’s performance in the playoffs. Budenholzer will need to navigate these challenges and ensure that the team reaches its full potential. The Suns have limited flexibility in terms of roster moves due to their high payroll and luxury tax penalty.
Budenholzer’s arrival in Phoenix marks a new chapter for the Suns as they look to build on their past successes and compete at the highest level in the NBA. The team’s management is confident in Budenholzer’s ability to lead them to a championship and believes that his experience and coaching acumen will be invaluable in achieving their goals. With a talented roster and a focus on maximizing the potential of their star players, the Suns are poised to make a strong push for a championship under Budenholzer’s guidance.
