Wisconsin Herd hires former NBA veteran Beno Udrih as its new head coach

Beno Udrih brings with him 13 years of NBA experience.

© Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

The Milwaukee Bucks’ G League affiliate, the Wisconsin Herd, have announced they have a new head coach in former NBA point guard Beno Udrih. The Slovenian is no stranger to Milwaukee, having played for the Bucks from 2011 to 2013. Working primarily as the backup point guard, the 6-foot-3 guard averaged 6.2 points and 3.7 assists per game in 98 games played for the Bucks.

13-year NBA veteran Beno Udrih – a two-time champion with the Spurs – is becoming the new head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks’ Wisconsin Herd G League team, sources say. Udrih has spent time as a G League assistant coach, Pelicans assistant and pro scout for Hawks last season.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) August 9, 2023

Crafty guard

Udrih arrived in the NBA in 2004 when the San Antonio Spurs selected him 28th overall. While he won two NBA titles with the Spurs, it wasn’t until he was traded to the Sacramento Kings that Udrih really got to show off his skills. In his last four seasons with the Kings, Udrih averaged 12.6 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 4.7 assists per game.

While he was never the quickest or the most athletic guard, Udrih relied on his craftiness and skill to make plays for himself and his teammates. His ability to finish with either hand in the paint made him a threat when attacking off the dribble, while his spot-up shooting kept defenders honest.

Critical role

While the Bucks don’t rely on their young players often due to the presence of such experienced veterans like Giannis Antetokounmpo, Khris Middleton, Brook Lopez, Jrue Holiday, and Jae Crowder, the team currently has a cadre of youngsters who have tons of potential. This includes the likes of recent draft picks Andre Jackson Jr. and Chris Livingston, as well as sharpshooter A.J. Green.

With the Bucks slated to contend for an NBA title once again, these young players are expected to spend more time in the G League than in the NBA. There, Udrih can help the Bucks’ youngsters learn the ropes of the pro game and hone their skills so that they can be better prepared to contribute when called upon. His knowledge and experience should be invaluable, and Udrih could become an essential part of Milwaukee's success this season.