BREAKING NEWS: Former Milwaukee bucks head coach Mike Budenholzer who most recently served as the head coach of the Phoenix Suns of the National Basketball Association sent a message to milwaukee bucks head coach Doc Rivers concerning…..

In a move that has caught both fans and league insiders by surprise, former Milwaukee Bucks head coach Mike Budenholzer — who recently completed a challenging one-year stint as head coach of the Phoenix Suns — has publicly addressed current Bucks head coach Doc Rivers in a heartfelt and surprisingly candid open letter. The message, delivered through The Players’ Tribune early Wednesday morning, has sparked intense conversations across NBA circles, especially among Bucks loyalists who still regard Budenholzer as a central figure in the team’s 2021 championship run.

The lengthy statement, titled “From One Coach to Another: A Message to Milwaukee,” praises Rivers’ leadership while cautioning against what Budenholzer calls “the slow erosion of what once made the Bucks special.”

A Reverberating Message

In the opening of his letter, Budenholzer reflects on his time in Milwaukee, which spanned from 2018 to 2023 and included a historic 2021 NBA Championship.

“Milwaukee is more than just a city with a team — it’s a place that embraced me, challenged me, and gave me some of the most meaningful moments of my life,” Budenholzer wrote. “Coaching Giannis, Jrue, Khris, Brook — those weren’t just jobs, they were relationships, battles, and bonds. Doc, I know you’re walking into a locker room with warriors. Don’t let the noise distract you from that.”

Budenholzer’s tenure came to an end after the Bucks suffered a surprising first-round playoff exit in 2023 at the hands of the Miami Heat. The abrupt end led to his dismissal, despite his having the highest winning percentage in franchise history. After a year away from coaching, he accepted the head coaching position with the Phoenix Suns for the 2024-25 season. His stint in the desert proved tumultuous, marred by injuries, locker room tensions, and a disappointing 41-41 finish that ended with the Suns missing the playoffs.

Coaching Brotherhood — and Warnings

What makes Budenholzer’s letter particularly striking is the tone — supportive yet cautionary. He begins by recognizing Doc Rivers’ experience and credentials, calling him “a proven winner and a commanding voice,” but quickly pivots to what he perceives as critical challenges the Bucks face.

“This team, this city, this fanbase — they don’t just want another playoff berth,” Budenholzer wrote. “They remember 2021. They remember the parades, the deer district, the confetti. They want to feel that again. And they deserve it. Doc, you’re not just managing a roster — you’re holding a legacy.”

Budenholzer urged Rivers to “prioritize culture over convenience,” referencing what he sees as a shift in the locker room’s atmosphere post-2023.

“When I left, the locker room still breathed with sacrifice, effort, and unity,” he added. “But I’ve heard whispers. Individual agendas, growing egos, complacency creeping in. That’s not Milwaukee basketball.”

This statement has prompted speculation regarding specific players or internal dynamics that Budenholzer may be referring to, though he stopped short of naming anyone directly.

Rivers Responds: “I Respect Bud’s Passion”

Within hours of the letter’s release, Rivers was asked about the message during a press conference following the Bucks’ first Summer League practice in Las Vegas. Rather than bristle at the unsolicited advice, Rivers appeared composed and respectful.

“I have a lot of respect for Bud,” Rivers said. “He’s been in this chair before. He brought a championship to this organization. I read the letter, and honestly, I appreciate the sentiment. At the end of the day, we both care deeply about this team and this city.”

When asked whether Budenholzer’s words reflected real concerns within the Bucks’ locker room, Rivers replied cautiously.

“Look, every team has its challenges. We’re in the process of redefining who we are post-2021. I’ve had honest conversations with our leaders — Giannis included — and we’re all committed to restoring that fire.”

A City Reacts

Milwaukee fans have flooded social media with reactions ranging from support for Budenholzer’s candor to critiques of his decision to speak publicly rather than privately.

On Reddit, user CreamCityForLife posted:

“Bud didn’t have to say anything. The fact that he did tells me he still cares about this team deeply. I hope Doc listens.”

Others were less impressed. Twitter user @BangoBurns wrote:

“Bud had his shot. Respect him for 2021, but let Doc do his thing. No need to stir the pot from Phoenix.”

Local sports radio shows dedicated entire segments Wednesday morning to dissecting Budenholzer’s message, with hosts divided on whether it reflects genuine concern or veiled criticism.

A Larger Conversation About NBA Coaching

Budenholzer’s open letter also opens a broader discussion about the evolving dynamics of coaching in the modern NBA. With stars wielding more influence than ever and front offices making rapid decisions, coaches are under increasing pressure to not just win games but manage egos, narratives, and legacies.

NBA analyst Kendrick Perkins weighed in during an appearance on ESPN’s First Take:

“This is bigger than just Milwaukee. What Bud did — stepping out and saying, ‘Don’t forget who you are’ — that’s rare in this league. Most guys walk away and stay silent. But Bud’s making it clear: culture matters.”

What’s Next for Both Coaches

For Mike Budenholzer, the future remains uncertain. After parting ways with the Suns last month, he is currently without a coaching position, though he has been linked to several front office consultant roles and even rumored to be considered for a potential college coaching job.

For Doc Rivers, the message is clear: the 2025-26 season is not just about wins and losses. It’s about restoring belief. With Giannis Antetokounmpo still in his prime, Khris Middleton embracing a veteran leadership role, and the Bucks front office actively reshaping the roster around its core, expectations are sky-high.