50 Facts About Mike Budenholzer

Early Life and Family

Mike Budenholzer's journey in basketball began in a small town in Arizona. His upbringing and family background played a significant role in shaping his future career.

1. Born in Holbrook, Arizona, Mike was the youngest of seven siblings in the Budenholzer family. His parents, Vince and Libby, were influential figures in the community.

2. Coaching was in his blood as his father, Vince, was a Hall-of-Fame high school and college basketball coach in Arizona for over 25 years. This early exposure to the sport had a lasting impact on Mike.

3. The Budenholzers became "Holbrook royalty" in 1971 when Vince led Holbrook High School to the Arizona state championship. Libby also made history as the first female city council member and mayor in Holbrook.

4. Growing up in Holbrook, Mike experienced a diverse upbringing, interacting with people from various ethnic backgrounds, including Navajos, Mexicans, blacks, and Mormons.

Education and Playing Career

Despite a strong high school career, Mike's path to becoming a coach wasn't straightforward. His college and playing experiences laid the foundation for his future in coaching.

5. Mike attended Pomona College in California, influenced by his brothers who played basketball there. He graduated with a degree in philosophy, politics, and economics in 1993.

6. Before coaching, he played professionally in Scotland and Denmark. In Denmark, he averaged an impressive 27.5 points per game during the 1993-94 season.

7. His achievements at Pomona College earned him a spot in the Pomona-Pitzer Hall of Fame in 2015, recognizing his contributions to basketball and golf.

Coaching Career Beginnings

Mike's coaching career took off when he joined the San Antonio Spurs, where he learned from one of the best in the business.

8. In 1994, Gregg Popovich hired him as an assistant coach for the Spurs, making him the youngest assistant coach in the NBA at that time.

9. When Popovich became head coach, Mike was promoted to assistant coach, playing a crucial role in the team's success.

10. Despite opportunities elsewhere, he was initially reluctant to leave the Spurs, valuing the culture he helped build with Popovich.

Atlanta Hawks Era

Mike's first head coaching role came with the Atlanta Hawks, where he made a significant impact.

11. He was hired as head coach of the Hawks in 2013, leading them to the playoffs in his first season.

12. In the 2014-15 season, he guided the Hawks to a franchise-record 60 wins and was named NBA Coach of the Year.

13. Promoted to president of basketball operations in 2015, he had final say in all basketball matters, though he was removed from this role in 2017.

14. He also served as an assistant coach for Team Africa at the 2015 NBA Africa exhibition game.

Milwaukee Bucks Success

Mike's tenure with the Milwaukee Bucks was marked by remarkable achievements, including an NBA championship.

15. In 2018, he became head coach of the Bucks, leading them to a 60-22 record in his first season and earning his second NBA Coach of the Year award.

16. He led the Bucks to an NBA championship in 2021, their first title in 50 years, defeating the Phoenix Suns in six games.

17. The Bucks extended his contract in 2021, keeping him with the team through the 2024-25 season.

18. Despite a successful regular season, he was fired in 2023 after the Bucks lost in the first round of the playoffs.

New Chapter with Phoenix Suns

After a brief hiatus, Mike returned to coaching with the Phoenix Suns, eager to take on new challenges.

19. In 2024, he was hired as head coach of the Suns, marking a new chapter in his coaching career.

20. His career winning percentage stands at .604, reflecting his success over 10 seasons as an NBA coach.

21. Since April 2023, he holds the longest winless streak, having not suffered a loss since then.

22. He took a year off to recharge, focusing on personal matters and spending time with family before returning to the NBA.

Coaching Philosophy and Impact

Mike's coaching philosophy emphasizes teamwork, strategic decision-making, and player development, making him a respected figure in the NBA.

23. He believes in playing fast and competing at a high level, putting players in positions to succeed together.

24. Excited about the Suns' talent, he aims to unlock the full potential of stars like Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal.

25. Growing up as a Suns fan, his favorite player was Paul Westphal, along with other legendary Suns players.

26. Known as "Coach Bud", he is respected for his leadership style, focusing on teamwork and strategic decisions.

27. His coaching philosophy centers around creating a winning culture and building strong relationships with players and staff.

28. He transformed the Hawks and Bucks into contenders, leading the Hawks to their deepest playoff run in 48 years and the Bucks to their first championship in 50 years.

29. Recognized for his achievements, he has been named NBA Coach of the Year twice and received numerous accolades.

30. Beyond coaching, he is involved in community initiatives, giving back to the sport and the community.

31. He is married with four children, prioritizing family time during his year away from coaching.

32. Despite the challenges of the NBA coaching carousel, he remains optimistic about the profession and its rewards.

33. Notable assistant coaches under him include Charles Lee and Darvin Ham, who have had successful careers.

34. Frank Vogel's journey mirrors Mike's, reflecting the dynamic landscape of NBA coaching.

35. As a member of the NBA Coaches Association, he participates in discussions to improve coaching standards.

36. His time with the Spurs was marked by multiple championships and a strong organizational culture, crediting Popovich for his mentorship.

37. In Atlanta, he left a lasting legacy, leading the Hawks to their deepest playoff run in decades.

38. In Milwaukee, he transformed the Bucks into a perennial contender, creating a winning culture that will be remembered.

39. With the Suns, he faces new challenges, aiming to lead the team to success in the competitive Western Conference.

40. Player development is one of his strengths, helping players reach their full potential, crucial for any team's success.

41. Known for strategic decision-making, he makes adjustments during games to maximize his team's chances of winning.

42. Creating a strong team culture is essential for him, emphasizing teamwork, discipline, and a winning mentality.

43. Building strong player relationships is critical, understanding each player's strengths and weaknesses for informed decisions.

44. Offseason preparation is key, with training camps, team-building activities, and strategic planning for the upcoming season.

45. On game days, he is meticulous, reviewing footage and analyzing opponents' strategies for the best chance of winning.

46. Post-game analysis helps identify areas for improvement, ensuring continuous progress for future games.

47. Investing in player development programs is important, offering training sessions, mentorship, and educational workshops.

48. Involved in community outreach programs, he participates in youth basketball clinics, charity events, and educational initiatives.

49. He has read several coaching philosophy books, gaining insights into different styles and strategies for various teams.

50. His legacy in coaching is one of excellence, inspiring countless coaches and players with his commitment to teamwork, strategic decision-making, and player development.

Mike Budenholzer: A Legacy of Excellence

Mike Budenholzer's journey from Holbrook, Arizona, to the NBA's elite coaching ranks is a testament to his dedication and passion for basketball. With a career spanning over two decades, he's left an indelible mark on the sport. From his early days learning from his father, a Hall-of-Fame coach, to leading the Milwaukee Bucks to their first championship in 50 years, Budenholzer's impact is undeniable. His coaching philosophy emphasizes teamwork, strategic decision-making, and player development, which has transformed teams like the Atlanta Hawks and Milwaukee Bucks into contenders. Now, as the head coach of the Phoenix Suns, he's poised to unlock the potential of a star-studded roster. Beyond the court, Budenholzer's commitment to community involvement and personal growth further cements his legacy. His story inspires aspiring coaches and players, showcasing the power of perseverance and passion in achieving greatness.