Coach Mike Budenholzer is a popular figure in the NBA and has been around the league for several years. He first started his career as Head Coach back in 1993. Famously known as “Coach Bud” he served alongside one of the greatest coaches of all time, Gregg Popovich. He was the Assistant Head Coach of the San Antonio Spurs and one four titles between 1999 and 2007. In 2013, Mike branched off to make a name for himself.
In 2013, Mike Budenholzer claimed the Head Coach position of the Atlanta Hawks. During his time with them, they weren’t too successful. It was during his time with the Hawks when his wife Mary Beth Budenholzer was introduced to the world. Unfortunately, she went through a medical emergency at this time for which Mike had to leave the Hawks briefly before officially parting ways with the organization.
A few years down the line, Mike and Mary got a divorce. The reason was never publicized as both individuals are fairly private about their personal lives. They parented four children together, William Vincent, John Bent, Savoia Elizabeth, and Hanna Lousie. John Bent is also moving into the sport of basketball just like his father. In 2018, Coach Bud signed with Milwaukee Bucks but this was during the time of his tragic divorce. The Bucks and Budenholzer would go on to make history in the years to come.
Coach Mike Budenholzer lost his brother during the Heat vs Bucks playoff series
The Bucks had an incredible 2022-23 regular season run but failed to deliver their best during the playoffs. Their star player Giannis Antetokounmpo missed two games following his back injury from Game 1. But the Bucks falling short of the series had a bigger reason behind it. One of Mike’s brothers died in a tragic car accident. An incident like this is bound to shake up ones near and dear to the victim.
Mike Budenholzer was one of seven children and the youngest brother among four of them. Los Angeles Lakers head coach Darvin Ham was the first to address Mike’s situation. He said, “Coach Bud is going through a lot on a personal level. He just lost his brother, so my apologies Bud if I wasn’t supposed to let anybody know. He and I’ve been texting. I love those guys.”
Ever since Budenholzer’s arrival, the Bucks have been extremely successful. He was named NBA Head Coach of the Year twice and coached the All-Star Games twice as well. In 2021, he helped the Bucks win their first title in 50 years. Giannis also achieved a lot during his time under Budenholzer. He won two MVP awards, a Defensive Player of the Year award, All-Star Game MVP, All-NBA honors, and other accolades.
