Breaking News: Mike Budenholzer Returns to Milwaukee as Suns Head Coach, Faces Former Team in Emotional Showdown………….
Milwaukee, WI – July 7, 2025 — In a highly anticipated and emotional reunion, Mike Budenholzer returned to Fiserv Forum for the first time since being let go by the Milwaukee Bucks, this time on the opposing bench as the head coach of the Phoenix Suns. In a dramatic and tightly contested game, Budenholzer’s Suns edged out the Bucks 112-109, marking a significant victory for the veteran coach against his former team.
Budenholzer, who led the Bucks to their first NBA championship in 50 years in 2021, was met with a standing ovation from Milwaukee fans during pregame introductions. The crowd erupted in applause as a tribute video played on the jumbotron, showcasing memorable moments from his five-year tenure, which included multiple playoff runs and the historic title run led by Giannis Antetokounmpo.
“It’s emotional,” Budenholzer said in the postgame press conference. “Milwaukee is a special place for me and my family. I’m grateful for the time I had here, for the players, the staff, and of course, the fans. This city gave me memories I’ll never forget.”
Budenholzer was dismissed in 2023 after the Bucks suffered a shocking first-round playoff exit. The decision was controversial among fans and analysts alike, given his overall 271–120 regular-season record with the team. After taking a year off from coaching, Budenholzer returned to the sidelines in 2024, taking the helm of a retooled Phoenix Suns squad featuring stars Devin Booker, Bradley Beal, and Kevin Durant.
Sunday night’s game was a back-and-forth affair that lived up to its billing. Giannis Antetokounmpo led the Bucks with 33 points and 14 rebounds, but late-game execution and a clutch three-pointer from Booker in the final minute gave Phoenix the edge. Durant added 28 points, while Beal chipped in with 21, helping the Suns improve their road record and strengthen their position in the Western Conference playoff race.
For Milwaukee, the loss marked only their fifth home defeat of the season. New head coach Darvin Ham acknowledged the emotional weight of the matchup.
“Coach Bud is someone I respect a lot,” Ham said. “He helped build something great here. Tonight wasn’t just another game — it was a reunion, a reminder of the legacy he left behind.”
Despite the loss, the Bucks remain near the top of the Eastern Conference standings. As for the Suns, the win serves as a turning point in their season, with Budenholzer’s system beginning to take firm hold.
Budenholzer was seen postgame embracing several former players and staff members, including Giannis, Khris Middleton, and Brook Lopez. The respect was evident on both sides — a night where the scoreboard told only part of the story.
“It felt right being back,” Budenholzer added. “But it felt even better to compete again — and to do it in this building? That’s something I’ll cherish.”
