Former Bucks player and NBA veteran, Beno Udrih, is returning to Wisconsin as the new head coach of the Wisconsin Herd for the upcoming season. Tuesday (August 15), the team announced that Udrih would lead the team’s NBA G League affiliate, making him the fourth head coach in team history, according to Channel 3000.
In a statement released by the Herd, Udrih said, “I have a long-standing respect for the Herd and Bucks as an entire organization. I’m excited to get to work and do my best to help develop our players both on and off the court. As a former player, I hope to bring a certain level of relatability to my approach, and help our players become the best version of themselves.”
Drafted by the Spurs in 2004, Udrih played professionally for 21 years, including the NBA and playing overseas. In San Antonio, the 41-year-old was part of two championship teams. During his time in the NBA, the point guard played with the Kings, Bucks, Magic, Knicks, Grizzlies, Heat, and Pistons. He last played in the NBA in 2016-17 and finished out his professional career after the 2018 season in Europe.
This isn’t Udrih’s first coaching gig in the G League, as he was an assistant coach with the Westchester Knicks during the 2019-20 season. He also was an assistant coach for the Pelicans for two seasons, and was a scout for the Hawks last season, according to Channel 3000.
“Beno brings a wealth of basketball knowledge from his playing career in the NBA and internationally as well as coaching experience at the NBA and NBA G League levels,” Bucks general manager Jon Horst said. “Beno’s collaborative approach and passion for teaching the nuances of the game will make him a great fit for this position.“
Last season, the Herd was named G League Franchise of the Year. Udrih will replace Chaisson Allen, who became head coach of the Herd ahead of the 2021-22 season. Allen was 19-45 during his time as head coach from 2021-23.
