The Milwaukee Bucks have fired head coach Mike Budenholzer after five seasons with the team. Despite leading the Bucks to their first NBA title in 50 years just two seasons ago, Budenholzer was let go after the team’s disappointing first-round playoff loss to the Miami Heat. ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski first reported the news.
Budenholzer went 271-120 during his time in Milwaukee and made the playoffs every year. He was named NBA Coach of the Year twice, in 2014-15 and 2018-19, and also coached the Atlanta Hawks for five seasons, making the playoffs four times. Budenholzer has an overall record of 484-317 as a head coach and is 56-48 in the playoffs for his career.
The decision to fire Budenholzer was a difficult one, according to Bucks general manager Jon Horst, who thanked Budenholzer for helping to create a culture of winning and leadership in Milwaukee. Horst said the move was an opportunity for the team to refocus and reenergize their efforts as they continue to build towards their next championship season.
The Bucks’ loss to the Heat was a disappointing end to what had been a promising season. Milwaukee had the best record in the NBA during the regular season but became the first No. 1 seed to lose in the first round of the playoffs since the 2012 Chicago Bulls. The team struggled defensively against Miami and failed to make adjustments throughout the series, leading to criticism of Budenholzer’s coaching.
The Bucks now face a crucial offseason as they look to remain a top-tier team in the Eastern Conference. Khris Middleton, Jrue Holiday, Brook Lopez, Jae Crowder, and Joe Ingles are among the notable free agents this summer, and the team will need to make decisions about their futures. Giannis Antetokounmpo, the team’s two-time MVP, will also be eligible to sign a contract extension, though it is uncertain if he will do so.
Overall, while Budenholzer’s tenure in Milwaukee was successful in many ways, the team’s recent playoff disappointments ultimately led to his dismissal. The Bucks will now look to find a new head coach who can help them take the next step towards a championship.
