Where Is Mike Budenholzer? Ex-Bucks Coach Could Make Much-Awaited NBA Return, via Struggling Eastern Conference Team

Mike Budenholzer’s tenure with the Milwaukee Bucks is well known. He arrived in 2018 built the team around ‘The Greek Freak’ Giannis Antetokounmpo and later led the Bucks to the Championship in 2021. However, the Bucks struggled later in the next seasons and they faced a disappointing 1st round playoff exit in 2023.

This result led to Budenholzer’s exit from the Bucks. “I think collectively we felt it was a time, the right time to make a change, an opportunity to kind of refocus and reenergize our efforts and try to build toward another championship season,” GM Jon Horst had stated. Now as rumors of his return start to float around, Mike seems to be a worthy discussion online.

Budenholzer surfaces back in NBA scenes

Mike Budenholzer made his exit from the Milwaukee Bucks back in May 2023. “Thank you… it’s time for a beer… and some sun on one of the lakes,” Mike had penned in his goodbye note. Following that, the coach had remained off the radar and away from any coaching jobs. His last update showed him in a “4 days of golf heaven” until he found himself as a top prospect for various HC roles in the NBA.

Late in Feb, reports surfaced stating that Bud was currently one of the best options for an HC with the Brooklyn Nets at the forefront. Now a month later, more has been added to the speculations, thanks in part to his time with the Bucks.

Recent reports, including those from reliable sources such as @WireHoops and @wojespn, hint at Mike Budenholzer’s imminent return to the NBA coaching realm. Apart from the Nets, the Phoenix Suns were also reported to have been eyeing Budenholzer after his Bucks exit. However, while nothing remains confirmed, Charlotte Hornets’ active initiative on the lookout for an HC places Budenholzer on the list of likely comebacks. If not the Hornet’s seems like NBA is awaiting the 54-year-old’s return nonetheless.

Charlotte Hornets: Budenholzer’s next destination?

Budenholzer arrived in Milwaukee in 2018 and quickly established a defensive identity for the Bucks, using Giannis Antetokounmpo’s defensive prowess. The team enjoyed success and won the Championship in 2021 after 50 years. He coached the Bucks for 391 games and managed to win 271 of the lot with a win percentage of 69.30. Now with the Charlotte Hornets coming off a disappointing season, the experience and timing seem to fit quite well for the parties.

However, the coaching vacancy has opened the door for several talented assistants. ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reported that the Hornets have secured permission to interview a group of rising stars Jordi Fernandez (Sacramento Kings), Charles Lee (Boston Celtics), Kevin Young (Phoenix Suns), and David Adelman (Denver Nuggets).

Additionally, Yahoo Sports suggests Miami Heat assistant Chris Quinn and Utah Jazz assistant Lamar Skeeter could also be in the mix. And the inclusion of Budenholzer to this list adds more intrigue surrounding the Hornets’ search.

The Hornets have a very young and talented squad including LaMelo Ball and Miles Bridges. They’ll be looking for a coach who can unlock their offensive potential while maintaining a strong defensive foundation. Budenholzer’s past record and his Championship winning formula will certainly give him an upper hand.

In the end, it will depend on the Hornets. Do they want a proven winner like Budenholzer, or are they willing to gamble on a young, innovative mind?. But one thing is for sure. Budenholzer is nearing a return to the NBA. Whether he joins the Hornets or goes elsewhere will be the thing to watch. But it seems Budenholzer is ready for a much-anticipated return to the NBA sidelines.

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