NBA: Milwaukee Bucks’ Former Coach Mike Budenholzer Releases Statement
MILWAUKEE — The Milwaukee Bucks fired coach Mike Budenholzer after the East's top seed suffered a first-round playoff loss to the Miami Heat. Prior to the breaking news, the Bucks won 58 games under Budenholzer’s leadership during the 2022-23 season and entered the 2023 playoffs as the NBA's No. 1 overall seed. But things took a turn after falling in the first round to the No. 8 seed Heat in five games and becoming only the sixth 1-seed in NBA history to lose to an 8-seed.
"The decision to make this change was very difficult," Bucks general manager Jon Horst said in a statement Thursday. "Bud helped lead our team for five incredible seasons, to the Bucks' first title in 50 years, and into an era of sustained success. We are grateful for the culture of winning and leadership that Bud helped create in Milwaukee.”
Despite a solid career with the Bucks, Budenholzer is just the fourth coach in the past 50 seasons to lead his team to the best record in the NBA and not return the following season.
Did the Bucks drop the ball with this one?
Well, the Bucks’ General Manager does not see it this way, as he says the team is continuing to look ahead on building toward their next championship season.
"This is an opportunity for us to refocus and reenergize our efforts as we continue building toward our next championship season," said General Manager Jon Horst.
Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo released a heartfelt message on Twitter showing his gratitude for his former coach.
Photo Credit: Sports Illustrated
Budenholzer released this statement following the news.
