Phoenix Suns guard Bradley Beal shared his candid reaction to head coach Mike Budenholzer’s decision to move him to the bench.
Beal, who has built his reputation as one of the league’s premier guards, admitted that the move was unexpected.
When asked if he was surprised by the decision, he responded bluntly, “One hundred percent. I’m a starter in the league,” Beal emphasized.
“I firmly believe that. I don’t believe that – no disrespect to anyone, but I’m a starter. That’s what I firmly believe. But Coach made his decision. I’m not gonna sit here and argue with it. I’m not gonna sit here and be a distraction.
“I’m not gonna sit here and be an a–hole. He made his decision. I live with it. He’s the coach, know what I’m saying? I just gotta go out and play my game, and whatever happens from there, happens from there.”
Budenholzer explained that the decision to bring Beal off the bench was driven by the team’s need for change. He also clarified that the lineup shift is not temporary, describing it as a strategic move that won’t be revisited on a day-to-day basis.
While Beal has expressed his belief in his role as a starter, his commitment to professionalism and his team-first mindset remain evident.
“At the end of the day, I just have to go out and play my game,” he said.
For now, Beal seems determined to let his performance on the court speak for itself.
Bradley Beal Says Move To Bench Was A Surprise; He 'Holds The Cards' With Trades https://t.co/gHbKovzLBW
— RealGM (@RealGM) January 7, 2025
