Phoenix Suns Fire Coach Mike Budenholzer After Disappointing Season

PHOENIX – The Phoenix Suns have parted ways with head coach Mike Budenholzer after just one season, the team announced Monday. Budenholzer, who was hired in May 2024, concluded his tenure with a disappointing 36-46 record, failing to lead the Suns to the playoffs or even the SoFi Play-In Tournament.

The decision to relieve Budenholzer of his duties comes after the Suns lost nine of their last ten games this season. In a statement, the organization expressed its dissatisfaction, saying, “Competing at the highest level remains our goal, and we failed to meet expectations this season. Our fans deserve better. Change is needed.”

Budenholzer took over the Suns after a brief and likewise troubled stint by Frank Vogel, who was dismissed following the previous season. Under Budenholzer, who is a two-time NBA Coach of the Year and an Arizona native, the team initially showed promise by starting the season with an 8-1 record. However, injuries, particularly to star forward Kevin Durant, derailed their momentum.

Despite having a roster filled with talent, including Durant and fellow All-Stars Devin Booker and Bradley Beal, the Suns struggled throughout the season. The team could not maintain cohesion due to inconsistent rotations and injury issues, with Beal missing over 20 games this season alone.

The team’s defensive struggles were particularly stark, dropping from 13th in points allowed the previous season to 22nd this year. Budenholzer’s inability to settle on a consistent rotation meant young players such as Ryan Dunn and Oso Ighodaro oscillated in their roles week to week, further complicating the team’s chances of success.

Opinion on Budenholzer’s departure has been mixed within the organization. Forward Bradley Beal expressed frustration, stating, “It is disheartening. It is unfortunate. Nobody’s more pissed off than we are as a team.” He acknowledged the need for changes following the disappointing season.

Budenholzer’s exit follows a series of coach firings in the Suns’ recent history. The franchise has now replaced its head coach for the fourth time in four seasons. Owner Mat Ishbia has shown a willingness to invest in the team’s future, but decisions need to be made to rectify the team’s trajectory, especially with ongoing trade discussions surrounding Durant.

The Suns’ front office is currently on the lookout for a new head coach amidst the looming changes to the roster. Candidates for the position may include former coaches with successful track records, such as Taylor Jenkins and Michael Malone, who could align with Ishbia’s ambition for immediate success.

As speculation swirls, the Suns face an important offseason. The team’s inability to meet expectations this year means they must reassess their approach as they work to reestablish themselves as contenders in the Western Conference.