Sun Sets Early: Phoenix Suns Part Ways with Head Coach Mike Budenholzer After Missing Playoffs
In a move that sent shockwaves through the NBA community, the Phoenix Suns have officially parted ways with head coach Mike Budenholzer following the team’s stunning failure to qualify for the 2025 NBA Playoffs. The decision, confirmed by team executives early Tuesday morning, caps off a turbulent and ultimately disappointing season in the desert.
Budenholzer, hired with high expectations and a championship pedigree, was brought in to lead a Suns roster brimming with star power — including Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal. Yet despite the talent on paper, Phoenix struggled with inconsistency, injuries, and chemistry issues throughout the season. The result: a sub-.500 record and an early offseason.
“This was an extremely difficult decision,” said Suns General Manager James Jones in a statement. “Mike is a respected coach with a proven track record. However, after evaluating the season’s outcome, we felt a new direction was necessary to meet the high standards of this organization.”
Budenholzer, a two-time NBA Coach of the Year and 2021 NBA Champion with the Milwaukee Bucks, had hoped to replicate his past success in Phoenix. However, the Suns never found their rhythm, plagued by a lack of defensive identity and underwhelming performances in crucial stretches.
For many fans, the season was seen as a wasted opportunity. With a win-now roster and sky-high expectations, the Suns’ inability to even reach the play-in tournament is being viewed as one of the biggest letdowns in recent franchise history.
Now, the organization faces a pivotal offseason. The next head coach will be tasked with maximizing a veteran core whose championship window may be closing. Rumors are already swirling about potential replacements, including former NBA head coaches and rising assistants ready to take the reins.
As the sun sets on Budenholzer’s brief tenure in Phoenix, the franchise once again finds itself at a crossroads — searching for answers, stability, and a return to the postseason spotlight…
