San Antonio players happy for Mike Budenholzer

The San Antonio Spurs got back to work on Thursday and new Atlanta Hawks coach Mike Budenholzer was there going about his regular duties as an assistant coach. However, his days in San Antonio are winding down and current players like Tim Duncan and Tony Parker are happy to see him get a head coaching opportunity with the Atlanta Hawks.

"I'm very happy for him, very happy," Tony Parker said. "He's a great coach, a big part of what we've done all those years. It's a great opportunity for him. It's about time. He's going to have a great chance to prove what he can do. He's in good hands and I'm sure he's going to do a good job."

Tim Duncan echoed that sentiment. "It's been a long time (coming). It's well deserved. I know he's going to do an awesome job and I know Danny (Ferry) is psyched to have him."

Budenholzer will remain with the Spurs throughout the remainder of the playoffs and indicated during his introductory press conference that he and Danny Ferry wanted to be respectful of what the Spurs are trying to accomplish. Expect Budenholzer to be in touch with Ferry regularly to discuss the upcoming draft and to discuss possibilities in filling out the coaching staff.

In case you missed it, here is Mike Budenholzer's introductory press conference with the Atlanta Hawks. H/T to TruthClarity for the heads up.