Budenholzer returns to Hawks bench after suspension

Mike Budenholzer of the Atlanta Hawks reacts after a call with referee Tyler Ford during the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Philips Arena on December 5, 2016 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

Mike Budenholzer of the Atlanta Hawks reacts after a call with referee Tyler Ford during the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Philips Arena on December 5, 2016 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

Hawks coach Mike Budenholzer will be back on the bench Monday after serving a one-game suspension.

Budenholzer missed Sunday’s game against the Pacers after he bumped official Brian Forte arguing a non-foul call in a loss to the Cavaliers Friday. He returned for the Hawks game against the Warriors.

In a statement following the announcement of the suspension, Budenholzer apologized and said he intended to reach out to Forte to do so personally.

The conversation has yet to take place.

“So logistically is still hasn’t happened,” Budenholzer said. “We don’t have each other’s contact information. But I very much plan to. I would say Brian was great two nights ago. He is a great referee. I apologize to him now again and I will when I’m able to reach him by phone.”