Basketball

Phoenix Suns Announce Mike Budenholzer's Coaching Staff for 2024/25 Season

August 7, 2024

mike budenholzer announces phoenix suns coaching staff

The Phoenix Suns made headlines in May by appointing former Milwaukee Bucks head coach Mike Budenholzer as their new head coach. This strategic move is to strengthening the Suns roster and positioning them as strong contenders for the 2024/25 NBA championship. The franchise is clearly committed to leveraging Budenholzer’s proven track record to elevate their performance and secure a coveted NBA title.

In the early hours of Wednesday, August 7 (Philippine Standard Time), the Suns officially unveiled Budenholzer’s coaching staff for the upcoming season. The newly appointed coaching staff includes several notable names: Chad Forcier, David Fizdale, Vince Legarza, Mike Hopkins, Brent Barry, James Posey, Chaisson Allen and Schuyler Rimmer. This diverse and experienced team is expected to bring a wealth of knowledge and tactical acumen to the Suns.

The 2024-25 Phoenix Suns Coaching Staff ☄️

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— Phoenix Suns (@Suns) August 6, 2024

It’s noteworthy that almost all of the new appointees have ties to the San Antonio Spurs, where Budenholzer began his NBA coaching career as an assistant and the Milwaukee Bucks, the last team he managed as a head coach. This reflects Budenholzer’s preference for surrounding himself with individuals who share his basketball game philosophy and experience. Their collective expertise is anticipated to play a crucial role in shaping the Suns' strategies and overall team dynamics for the season.

The Suns faced challenges in filling out their coaching vacancies, largely due to financial constraints stemming from the ongoing payments to former head coach Frank Vogel. Vogel, who led the Suns to a respectable 49-33 win-loss record and secured a playoff berth, was dismissed after the team was swept by the Minnesota Timberwolves in the playoffs. Despite this setback, the Suns' front office decided it was time for a change, leading to Budenholzer’s appointment.

Detailed Profiles of the New Coaching Staff

Schuyler Rimmer: Rimmer brings a wealth of experience to the Suns’ coaching staff. He previously served as a player development assistant with the Milwaukee Bucks from 2018 to 2022 and as an assistant video coordinator for the Atlanta Hawks during the 2017/18 NBA season. His recent role as an assistant under Darvin Ham with the Los Angeles Lakers further highlights his versatility and depth of experience.
James Posey: Posey is a seasoned NBA professional, having served as an assistant coach for both the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Washington Wizards. His extensive NBA experience and understanding of player dynamics will be instrumental in enhancing the Suns' coaching strategies.
Chad Forcier: Forcier’s career is marked by significant contributions to the San Antonio Spurs and the Milwaukee Bucks. His role as a coach within these successful organizations underscores his ability to impact team performance positively.
Vince Legarza: Legarza’s connections with the San Antonio Spurs and the Milwaukee Bucks align closely with Budenholzer’s coaching philosophy. His experience will be valuable in integrating Budenholzer’s strategies into the Suns’ gameplay.
Mike Hopkins: Hopkins, known for his successful tenure as a head coach at the University of Washington, brings a fresh perspective to the coaching staff. His experience in collegiate basketball adds a unique dimension to the team’s strategic planning.
Brent Barry: Barry, a former NBA player and analyst, brings a combination of playing experience and media insight to the coaching staff. His understanding of the game from both a player’s and analyst’s perspective will provide valuable input.
Chaisson Allen: Allen’s previous roles with the San Antonio Spurs and the Milwaukee Bucks reflect his strong background in team development and strategy. His ability to adapt and contribute will be crucial for the Suns’ coaching efforts.

The Impact of Budenholzer’s Leadership

Mike Budenholzer’s appointment as head coach of the Suns was met with widespread acclaim. His leadership was pivotal in guiding the Milwaukee Bucks to the 2021 NBA championship, and his accolades as a two-time NBA Coach of the Year (2015 and 2019) reinforce his reputation as one of the top coaches in the league. Suns fans and analysts alike are optimistic about his potential to drive the team toward a successful season.

Budenholzer’s approach to coaching, characterized by a focus on defensive solidity and efficient offensive schemes, aligns well with the Suns' ambitions. His track record of developing players and fostering team cohesion will be key in maximizing the potential of the Suns' roster.

The Phoenix Suns’ decision to appoint Mike Budenholzer and his esteemed coaching staff marks a significant step in their quest for NBA championship glory. With a team of experienced coaches who have proven their capabilities in various roles across successful franchises, the Suns are well-positioned to make a strong impact in the 2024/25 season.

Fans and analysts are eagerly anticipating how Budenholzer’s strategic insights and the diverse expertise of his coaching staff will translate into on-court success. As the new season approaches, the Suns are set to embark on an exciting journey with high hopes of achieving their championship aspirations.