THESE IS THE BEST NEWS WE COULD HOPE FOR: Excitements Hits Fiserv Forum stadium as former Milwauke Bucks head coach returns to his former team as a senior coaching…see

In a stunning and heartwarming development that has sent waves of excitement through Wisconsin and beyond, the Milwaukee Bucks have officially announced that their former head coach and franchise icon, Mike Budenholzer, is returning to the team — this time in a new capacity as Senior Coaching Advisor. The announcement was made earlier today in a special press conference held inside the Fiserv Forum, where the atmosphere was nothing short of electric.

Fans, players, and members of the media erupted in cheers and applause as Budenholzer stepped onto the podium, greeted by Bucks president Peter Feigin and general manager Jon Horst. The moment marked a full-circle return for a coach who led the franchise to one of its most historic victories: the 2021 NBA Championship.

A Legacy That Never Left

Mike Budenholzer, often referred to as “Coach Bud” by fans and players alike, served as the Bucks’ head coach from 2018 to 2023. During his five-season tenure, he transformed the team from a perennial underachiever into a championship contender, culminating in that unforgettable 2021 title run led by superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo.

Despite parting ways with the organization two years ago after a tough playoff stretch, Budenholzer remained a beloved figure in Milwaukee. His return has reignited not just memories of triumph but also renewed optimism for the future.

“I never stopped rooting for this team,” Budenholzer told the media. “Milwaukee became my home. When Jon and I started talking about this new role, it felt right — like unfinished business in the best possible way.”

The Role: More Than Just Symbolic

According to Bucks management, Budenholzer’s new position as Senior Coaching Advisor is more than ceremonial. He will work closely with current head coach Doc Rivers, who joined the team mid-season in 2024, offering mentorship, strategic insights, and developmental guidance for both coaching staff and young players.

“Bringing Coach Bud back is not just a nod to the past — it’s an investment in our future,” said Horst. “We want to win another championship. With Doc and Bud collaborating, we’re bringing together two of the most respected minds in basketball.”

Doc Rivers echoed that sentiment, welcoming the opportunity to work alongside his former rival-turned-colleague. “Mike is one of the sharpest basketball minds I’ve ever coached against. Now, having him on our side? That’s a huge advantage,” Rivers said.

Giannis Reacts: “This Is Home Again”

No voice carried more emotional weight than Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Bucks’ two-time MVP and face of the franchise. Giannis, visibly emotional, shared his thoughts in a surprise appearance at the press conference.

“I owe so much to Coach Bud,” Giannis said. “He believed in me. He pushed me to be better. He helped me become a champion. Seeing him back here — it feels like home again.”

The connection between Giannis and Budenholzer was well-documented throughout the coach’s tenure, with many attributing the Greek Freak’s development into a league-dominating force in part to Budenholzer’s system and support.

Fans Flood Fiserv Forum in Celebration

As word of the announcement spread across social media and news networks, Bucks fans flocked to Fiserv Forum. Hundreds gathered outside the stadium, many donning Budenholzer-era championship shirts, waving banners that read “Welcome Home, Coach Bud” and “2021 Was Just the Beginning.”

Milwaukee native and season ticket holder Sarah Linquist described the moment as “pure joy.”

“Ever since Coach Bud left, it felt like something was missing,” she said. “Today, it’s like a piece of our heart came back.”

Another fan, 24-year-old Tyrone Simmons, said he skipped work to be there. “This isn’t just basketball — it’s history. Bud is part of our story. This city never forgot what he did.”

Championship Culture Rekindled

Since winning the NBA title in 2021, the Bucks have faced postseason frustrations, including early exits and injuries that derailed promising seasons. With a new era unfolding under Doc Rivers and a roster that still includes Giannis, Khris Middleton, Brook Lopez, and rising talents like MarJon Beauchamp, the organization is poised for another serious title run.

Budenholzer’s return, while not on the sidelines, symbolizes a revival of the “championship culture” that made Milwaukee an NBA epicenter just a few years ago.

“It’s about continuity,” said assistant GM Milt Newton. “Bringing Mike back ensures that we stay true to the principles that made us great — defense, unselfish basketball, and relentless work ethic.”

Behind the Scenes: How the Deal Came Together

According to sources close to the organization, conversations between Budenholzer and the Bucks began earlier this year. Initially, the idea was floated casually during an All-Star Weekend gathering, but it quickly evolved into a serious dialogue.

Horst reportedly pitched the idea of a strategic role where Budenholzer could contribute without the day-to-day grind of head coaching. After several meetings, a formal offer was extended in early July. Budenholzer, who had taken time away from coaching to focus on his family and health, accepted just last week.

“I needed time to reset after leaving,” Budenholzer admitted. “Now, I feel energized. I’m ready to help this team win again — however I can.”

National Reactions Pour In

The NBA world reacted swiftly to the news, with many coaches and analysts praising the Bucks for their decision.

ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith called it “a masterstroke move.”

“This is chess, not checkers,” Smith said on First Take. “You’re pairing two brilliant coaching minds. The East better watch out.”

Former Bucks player Jrue Holiday, now with the Boston Celtics, shared his reaction via Twitter:
“Coach Bud back in Milwaukee? That’s love. That man changed my career. Milwaukee is lucky.”

What Comes Next?

With the 2025-26 season just around the corner, Budenholzer is expected to begin work immediately, attending practices, sitting in on coaching meetings, and even advising on trade and draft strategies. While he won’t be on the bench during games, his influence will be deeply embedded in the Bucks’ operations.

As for the fans, they’re already treating his return as a good omen. Social media is flooded with throwback clips of the 2021 Finals, photos of Budenholzer and Giannis hugging, and declarations of a new “Budenholzer-Rivers Dynasty.”