David Fizdale. Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports

Mike Budenholzer to retain high-profile Suns assistant

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports | By Grey Papke | Last updated May 29, 2024 2:09 PM ET

New Phoenix Suns head coach Mike Budenholzer is keeping a high-profile assistant on his new staff.

Former NBA head coach David Fizdale will remain with the Suns in a prominent assistant-coaching role, according to Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN. Fizdale had spent last season as a member of former head coach Frank Vogel’s staff.

David Fizdale is returning to the Phoenix Suns in a prominent assistant coaching role on Mike Budenholzer’s staff, sources tell ESPN. Fizdale had been on Frank Vogel’s staff and now Budenholzer is keeping the two-time NBA head coach as part of his new group on bench. pic.twitter.com/HckzHhF8m5

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) May 29, 2024

Fizdale had been tied to Vogel for the last several years, first with the Los Angeles Lakers and then with the Suns. He and Budenholzer have never worked together, but both coaches enjoy a lot of respect from around the NBA and will certainly be very familiar with each other’s work.

There were some rumors that Fizdale might be bumped up to the front office after Vogel was fired, but Fizdale did not appear interested. Keeping him on the bench is likely the best solution for all involved.

This article first appeared on Larry Brown Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: