After the Bucks fired him last week, former coach Mike Budenholzer posted a statement on Instagram thanking the city of Milwaukee after five seasons with the team.
“The city of Milwaukee and the entire Bucks organization took us in and treated us like were part of their own family,” he wrote. “Every door that was opened, every corner that was turned, every need that was met for the entire five years helped us find our way and become part of the city.”
Budenholzer led the Bucks to the 2021 NBA Finals championship, the team’s first title since 1971. In total, the coach spent five seasons in Milwaukee and produced a 271–120 record. He exits as the team’s winningest head coach with a winning percentage of over 69%.
“Together we won an NBA Championship,” he continued. “The memories of the parade, watching the entire city celebrating with the players and staff as the buses made their way through the streets of Milwaukee, that is something we will all cherish forever.”
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As a result, Budenholzer is one of only two head coaches to win an NBA championship with the organization, joining Larry Costello.
In the statement, Budenholzer thanked many members of the organization, including members of this year’s team and from the past specifically by name, including Giannis Antetokounmpo, Khris Middleton and Jrue Holiday. He thanked the owners and front office members as well and finally, the fans.
“To have a place in the history of the city, the history of the Bucks organization, for that, I will be grateful,” he said. “In my mind, there was no better place to work than for the Bucks, and for Milwaukee. Thank you...It's time for a beer...and some sun on one of the lakes. Best, Coach Bud.”
