In a recent online interview, former Phoenix Suns center Jusuf Nurkic made striking allegations against his ex-coach, Mike Budenholzer, claiming Budenholzer suffered from alcohol addiction and deliberately instigated conflict among players. These revelations offer a deeper insight into the team's internal struggles during a challenging 2024-25 season, which ultimately led to Budenholzer's dismissal.
Jusuf Nurkic's Explosive Claims Against Former Coach Mike Budenholzer
On May 31, 2026, Jusuf Nurkic, a former player for the Phoenix Suns, shared his candid thoughts during an interview with X&Os Chat with Edin Avdic. Nurkic alleged that former Suns coach Mike Budenholzer was battling an “alcohol addiction” and deliberately fostered a hostile environment within the team. According to Nurkic, Budenholzer's coaching methods were not only ineffective but also intentionally provocative. One particular anecdote highlighted by Nurkic involved Budenholzer attempting to instruct superstar Kevin Durant, the NBA's fifth all-time leading scorer, on how to score a basket. Nurkic found this interaction "absurd," comparing it to teaching a pilot how to fly.
Nurkic further elaborated on Budenholzer’s behavior, stating that the coach would arrange one-on-one meetings with players like Bradley Beal and Grayson Allen, not to offer constructive feedback, but to "provoke" them with comments like, "You have no idea. You need to be this, you need to be that." Nurkic recalled an incident where Budenholzer called him a "bad teammate," leading to a direct confrontation where Nurkic challenged the coach’s accusations, emphasizing his willingness to discuss performance but not personal attacks. He described Budenholzer as being physically small but actively seeking out arguments.
Budenholzer’s single season with the Suns in 2024-25 concluded with a disappointing 36 wins and a missed playoff berth, despite a roster featuring prominent talents such as Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal. This outcome led to his termination by team owner Mat Ishbia. Reports from The Arizona Republic indicated growing dissatisfaction with Budenholzer's leadership, particularly after a home loss to the New Orleans Pelicans in February 2025.
Nurkic’s tumultuous relationship with Budenholzer began to fray shortly after a seemingly positive start. Following his acquisition from the Portland Blazers in a three-team trade for Deandre Ayton before the 2023-24 season, Nurkic played one season under Frank Vogel, averaging 10.9 points and 11 rebounds as the Suns secured 49 wins and a third seed in the 2024 playoffs, though they were swept by the Minnesota Timberwolves in the first round. After Vogel's dismissal, Budenholzer was hired, and initially, their interaction was amicable, with Budenholzer even visiting Nurkic overseas in the summer of 2024. However, by January 25, 2025, Nurkic revealed to The Republic that he and Budenholzer had not spoken for two months, highlighting a complete breakdown in their professional relationship. Budenholzer acknowledged Nurkic's frustration, attributing it to his reduced playing time.
After being traded to the Charlotte Hornets before the 2025 deadline, Nurkic joined the Utah Jazz for the 2025-26 season, where he thrived, averaging 10.9 points, 10.4 rebounds, and a career-high 4.8 assists in 41 games. Jazz coach Will Hardy praised Nurkic's contributions, particularly his screening and rebounding abilities, underscoring his value to the team. Nurkic is currently an unrestricted free agent.
Budenholzer, a two-time NBA Coach of the Year, previously led the Milwaukee Bucks to an NBA championship in the 2020-21 season, ironically defeating the Suns in the 2021 Finals. He was fired by the Bucks after the 2022-23 season. In his introductory press conference with the Suns in May 2024, Budenholzer spoke emotionally about using his year off to reconnect with his family. The Suns initially started the 2024-25 season with a 9-2 record but faltered significantly, missing the postseason for the first time since 2019-20. The team subsequently hired Jordan Ott to replace Budenholzer. Under Ott's leadership, the Suns won 45 games and returned to the playoffs this past season, though they were swept by the Oklahoma City Thunder in the first round.
The candid interview from Jusuf Nurkic serves as a powerful reminder of the human element in professional sports. Beyond the statistics and wins, the dynamics of personal relationships and coaching styles can profoundly impact a team's morale and performance. Nurkic's willingness to speak out, even years after the fact, highlights the lasting effects of a challenging work environment. It underscores the importance of not only strategic leadership but also empathetic and respectful management in fostering a cohesive and successful team. The stark contrast between Nurkic's experience with Budenholzer and his positive tenure with the Jazz further illustrates how a coach's approach can either empower or alienate players, ultimately shaping their careers and the team's trajectory.
