May 29, 2013; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Hawks head coach Mike Budenholzer takes questions from the media after being introduced during a press conference at Philips Arena. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Shirey-USA TODAY Sports

Yesterday it was made official that Coach Mike Budenholzer is not officially the coach of the Atlanta Hawks. Budenholzer during the press conference had nothing but great things to say about the 19 years he spent in San Antonio learning from one of if not the best coaches in the league, Gregg Popovich. He knew that this was an opportunity that he could not pass up and felt really good about the Atlanta Hawks and their actively pursuing him.

We heard from Popovich earlier this week about him getting the Atlanta Hawks spot, but we have not heard much from the players…..until now. Dan McCarney of Spurs Nation, had a chance to talk with Tony Parker and Tim Duncan as they spoke on the guy they call “Coach Bud”.

“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.” Said Tim Duncan, “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.”

You can’t help but wish the guy well in Atlanta when he does leave San Antonio after the finals. Lets cheer on the San Antonio Spurs extra hard come finals time and let’s not only give Tim Duncan that ring but also a great partying gift for a respectful and great coach in Mike Budenholzer.