Phoenix Suns head coach Mike Budenholzer reacts during the second half against the Oklahoma City Thunder. Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Suns Fire Coach Mike Budenholzer

Originally posted on Phoenix Suns on SI
By Jeremy Brener | Last updated Apr 14, 2025 12:18 PM ET

The Phoenix Suns are making another coaching change.

According to ESPN insider Shams Charania, the Suns are firing head coach Mike Budenholzer after just one season, where he compiled a 36-46 record.

BREAKING: The Phoenix Suns have fired head coach Mike Budenholzer after finishing in 11th place with a 36-46 record in his one season, sources tell ESPN. pic.twitter.com/ocySLmWDQI
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) April 14, 2025

The news doesn't come as much of a surprise considering the fact that the Suns regressed this season despite having Kevin Durant and Devin Booker on the roster. While Budenholzer was expected to lift the Suns based on his experience leading the Atlanta Hawks and Milwaukee Bucks, things didn't shake out as expected for the former NBA champion head coach.

Throughout the season, Budenholzer faced reports of losing the locker room, and was seen at times visibly arguing with Durant in the middle of games.

This is the third straight year that the Suns have fired their head coach. Monty Williams was let go after the 2023 season, and Frank Vogel was dismissed after the 2024 campaign.

Now, Phoenix will look for its fourth coach in as many years and hope that he can turn things around for the franchise.

This article first appeared on Phoenix Suns on SI and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: