Mike Budenholzer’s return to Milwaukee for the first time since his firing in 2023 was a significant moment, as his current team, the Phoenix Suns, visited Fiserv Forum. However, the game ended in disappointment for Budenholzer, with his team falling short against his former squad. While the Bucks acknowledged his return with a social media post, some—including franchise star Giannis Antetokounmpo—felt it wasn’t enough.
Budenholzer played an instrumental role in Milwaukee’s recent success, leading the team to an NBA championship in 2021. Across his five-year tenure, the Bucks never finished below third place in the regular season standings and were a perennial playoff team. His influence helped shape the franchise into a title contender, and for many, his legacy in Milwaukee remains strong.
Despite this, the Bucks organization chose to mark the occasion with just an online tribute rather than a formal in-game recognition, a decision that left Antetokounmpo puzzled. Speaking to reporters after the game, the two-time MVP admitted he expected a more heartfelt gesture from the team.
“I thought they were going to play like a video for him,” Antetokounmpo said, expressing his surprise. “They didn’t, which was surprising to me. I felt like they should.”
Antetokounmpo’s reaction is understandable. Under Budenholzer’s coaching, he won two MVP awards and a Defensive Player of the Year title while also playing a key role in the Bucks’ first championship run in 50 years. For a coach who brought so much success to the franchise, many—including Giannis—believe a video tribute would have been a more fitting way to honor his contributions.
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