In a stunning and welcome development for fans across the National Basketball Association (NBA), the Phoenix Suns have officially announced the return of former head coach Mike Budenholzer to their organization—this time in a Senior Coaching Strategist role.
The announcement sparked immediate excitement and celebration at the Chase Center and throughout the Suns’ loyal fanbase. Budenholzer, who previously served as head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks and guided them to the 2021 NBA Championship, is known for his elite basketball IQ, defensive systems, and veteran leadership.
Though he never coached the Suns in the past, Budenholzer’s ties to the Western Conference and deep coaching roots make him a natural fit for a franchise hungry for another deep playoff run. Sources close to the organization say his role will include strategic advising, mentoring younger coaching staff, and helping with game-planning throughout the season.
Fans and analysts alike see this move as a major step forward in the Suns’ championship ambitions, especially following their recent playoff shortcomings. Social media lit up within minutes of the announcement, with Suns supporters calling it “the best news we could hope for.”
As the Suns gear up for the 2025–26 season, all eyes will be on how Budenholzer’s influence shapes the team’s identity on and off the court.
