The Phoenix Suns are taking a big step in their coaching staff by hiring Mike Budenholzer to be their new head coach. Shams Charania from The Athletic and Stadium has stated that Budenholzer’s contract is expected to be very profitable, with an annual salary in the high eight figures. This choice is made as the Suns look to recover from a disappointing 2023–24 season with Frank Vogel.
High Expectations:
At the start of the previous season, the Phoenix Suns had many high hopes due to the addition of key players like Bradley Beal, Jusuf Nurkić, Nassir Little, and Grayson Allen during the offseason. Anticipation for a successful campaign was soaring, with Vogel leading the team and star players Devin Booker and Kevin Durant already on the roster.
Unfulfilled Potential:
Even with the high-profile players on the roster, the team had difficulty coming together during games. Depth problems, a lack of a genuine point guard, and defensive weaknesses haunted the Suns all season long.
Budenholzer’s Championship Pedigree:
Mike Budenholzer’s addition to the Suns comes with a winning track record, as he clinched a championship with the Milwaukee Bucks in the 2020–21 season, partnering with Giannis Antetokounmpo. His impressive history of achievements and expertise in coaching top players make him an appealing option for the Suns’ coaching role.
The Phoenix Suns plan to hire Bucks champion Mike Budenholzer as their head coach on deal expected to approach eight figures per year, league sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium. The Holbrook, Ariz., native will be tasked with optimizing Devin Booker, Kevin Durant, Bradley Beal. pic.twitter.com/eWFMedRNA2
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) May 10, 2024
Expectations for Budenholzer:
With Budenholzer at the helm, the Suns hope to maximize the talent at hand and propel the team to greater success. However, given the disappointments of the previous season, there will be pressure on Budenholzer to deliver results promptly.
New Suns coach: Mike Budenholzer.
NBA Champion 2021🏆
2x Coach of the year (2019, 2020)
19 Season as assistant coach behind Gregg Popovich.
An Arizona Native Holbrook, Arizona.
484-317 Record. (.604)Welcome coach! pic.twitter.com/dawKzqYBJF
— 🌵 Mr. Az (@MrAzSports) May 10, 2024
As the Phoenix Suns prepare to welcome Mike Budenholzer as their new head coach, anticipation is high for a fresh start and a return to contention. With Budenholzer’s proven track record and the talent on the Suns’ roster, fans eagerly await the upcoming season to see how the team will fare under new leadership.
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