Phoenix Suns hire Jordan Ott as head coach ahead of key offseason moves
Jordan Ott named new Phoenix Suns head coach
Extensive coaching search led by GM Brian Gregory
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Suns face roster decisions following coaching hire
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The Phoenix Suns have appointed Cleveland Cavaliers assistant Jordan Ott as the franchise's next head coach, according to sources familiar with the decision. Ott, who has served as an assistant in the NBA since 2012, replaces Mike Budenholzer following a 36-46 season.Ott was among two finalists, alongside fellow Cavaliers assistant Johnnie Bryant, who met with team owner Mat Ishbia, CEO Josh Bartelstein, and general manager Brian Gregory in Michigan earlier this week. Devin Booker, the team's All-Star guard, was reportedly involved in the final stages of the hiring process and supported Ott's selection.Also read: Cavaliers' Johnnie Bryant and Jordan Ott finalists for Phoenix Suns coaching vacancy The hire marks the Suns' fourth head coaching change in as many seasons. Ott brings a reputation for tactical innovation on both offense and defense, as well as strong communication skills with players and staff. Team officials cited his adaptability and extensive background in video and analytics as key assets.The Suns began their coaching search after firing Budenholzer on April 14 and naming Gregory as general manager on May 1. Gregory led a multiround process that began with more than 15 candidates.Roughly eight coaches advanced to second-round interviews, and six, including Ott, Bryant, Miami's Chris Quinn, Dallas' Sean Sweeney, Oklahoma City's Dave Bliss, and Suns assistant David Fizdale, participated in in-person meetings last week.Ott's selection reflects alignment between Phoenix ownership and front office leadership, with all parties agreeing on the decision during final deliberations. His NBA coaching experience spans several franchises, including Atlanta (2013–16), Brooklyn (2016–22), the Los Angeles Lakers (2022–24), and Cleveland (2024–25).The Cavaliers, who posted an Eastern Conference-best 64 wins in 2024–25, now lose one of their top assistants. The team ranked first in offensive efficiency and eighth in defensive efficiency this season, according to ESPN Research.Also read: Phoenix Mercury signs former Duquesne guard Megan McConnell to WNBA roster With the head coaching vacancy filled, the Phoenix Suns will shift focus to roster adjustments ahead of the 2025–26 season. The team is expected to engage with All-Star forward Kevin Durant and his business partner, Rich Kleiman of Boardroom, to evaluate potential trade options.Durant is expected to draw interest from four to six teams during the offseason. His future, along with that of the broader Suns roster, will be key to the team's direction under Ott's leadership.Ott began his coaching career as a video coordinator at Michigan State under Tom Izzo from 2008 to 2013 before transitioning to the NBA. He has worked closely with player development staffs throughout his career, contributing to both veteran leadership and the growth of young talent.Also read: NBA finals preview: Indiana Pacers vs. Oklahoma City Thunder - key matchups and predictions The Suns enter the offseason aiming to restructure their roster while stabilizing leadership on the bench. Jordan Ott's appointment is expected to bring continuity and a structured development path for a team seeking consistency and long-term improvement.
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Time of India
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- Time of India
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Time of India
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