League: NBA Sport: Basketball Country: United States Category: Breaking News

Jusuf Nurkic discusses Suns' struggles during Mike Budenholzer's tenure

2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 2, 2026, 4:46 AM

Last updated Jun 2, 2026

Jusuf Nurkic discusses Suns' struggles during Mike Budenholzer's tenure

Summary

Jusuf Nurkic provided insight into the Phoenix Suns' disappointing 2024-25 season during an interview on X&O's Chat. Under coach Mike Budenholzer, the Suns finished 11th in the standings with a 36-46 record, failing to qualify for the Play-In Tournament despite a roster featuring Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal. Nurkic criticized Budenholzer's coaching methods, specifically his approach to explaining scoring to Durant. Following the season, Budenholzer was dismissed, leading to significant roster changes for the 2025-26 season.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Suns finished 2024-25 season with a 36-46 record.
•Mike Budenholzer was let go after one season as head coach.
•Notable players on the roster included Durant, Booker, and Beal.
•Nurkic critiqued Budenholzer's coaching style regarding Durant.
•Major roster changes are expected for the upcoming season.

Latest Updates

4:46 AMYahoo Sports — Jusuf Nurkic Explains Exactly How Mike Budenholzer Ruined the Suns Chemistry in Explosive Interview
3:24 AMYahoo Sports — Jusuf Nurkic reveals what went wrong with the Suns during Mike Budenholzer's stint

What they're saying

"
PHOENIX — Jusuf Nurkic explains exactly how Mike Budenholzer ruined the Suns chemistry with his drinking problem and strange tactics. The aftermath of the Phoenix Suns' disappointing 2024-25 season has officially erupted into the public eye. In a jaw-dropping podcast appearance that is actively sending shockwaves across the NBA landscape, veteran center Jusuf Nurkic leveled …
— Yahoo Sports