Suns fans have expressed frustration with head coach Mike Budenholzer, particularly when it comes to his reluctance to give Bol Bol consistent playing time, as highlighted by Duane Rankin of The Arizona Republic.
During the final home game of the season, the atmosphere was charged with anticipation when the crowd began cheering as Bol made his way to the scorer’s table with just over five minutes left in the fourth quarter.
However, much to the fans’ disappointment, Budenholzer decided against putting Bol in the game after San Antonio called a timeout, and Bol never saw the floor.
Budenholzer later explained his decision, offering a rationale based on the game’s situation.
“I think they cut (the lead) to 22 or 20 or 18 or something like that and just stuck with Royce (O’Neale),” he said. “Kind of the veteran. Just make sure it didn’t get any closer.”
The coach then praised O’Neale’s overall impact on the game.
“Royce had been out there and playing. Just loved his presence. Loves what he brings on both ends of the court in that situation.”
Despite the fans’ cheers for Bol, Budenholzer’s choice to prioritize veteran experience in a crucial moment left Bol’s opportunities limited, further fueling the tension between the coach’s decisions and the fanbase’s expectations.
Suns Notes: Beal, Dunn, Bol, Booker https://t.co/8WqMxhRJ5X pic.twitter.com/G5RSP3gFX5
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) April 13, 2025
