The finish line is finally in sight. By week’s end, the Phoenix Suns should know who will be holding the clipboard on the sidelines for the 2025–26 season. It feels like I’ve typed those words a dozen times over the past month—because I have. This has been a deliberate, methodical search from Mat Ishbia and Brian Gregory as they work to find someone who truly aligns with the vision they have for this franchise moving forward.
And in truth, that’s what this process needed to be. Not just a coaching search, but a mirror. A moment for the organization to stop, reflect, and define who they are and who they want to become, not only as a basketball team, but as a culture. Because that’s been the root issue since Ishbia took over: a series of quick fixes. Band-Aids over deeper fractures. Star players thrown together, head coaches swapped out, culture left to fend for itself. You can’t build lasting success on temporary solutions.
Now, with two candidates left standing—Jordan Ott and Johnnie Bryant, both currently assistants under Kenny Atkinson in Cleveland—the hope is that whoever gets the job will be empowered to build something lasting. That this hire won’t be judged by October or even by next spring, but by whether they can help restore a foundation and establish a culture built to endure.
The Final Two: Breaking Down the Candidates
1. Jordan Ott – The Strategist with Ishbia Ties
Background:
- Current Cleveland Cavaliers assistant coach (under Kenny Atkinson).
- Previously worked with the Brooklyn Nets and Atlanta Hawks.
- Strong offensive-minded coach, known for his play-calling and in-game adjustments.
- Michigan State connection with Mat Ishbia (both have Spartan ties).
Why Suns Could Be the Choice:
- Alignment with Ishbia’s vision—Ott’s familiarity with the owner could mean smoother organizational synergy.
- X’s and O’s expertise—Phoenix needs better late-game execution, and Ott has a track record of strong offensive schemes.
- Fresh perspective—Unlike retreads, Ott represents a new voice, which could help reset the team’s culture.
Potential Concerns:
- Lack of head coaching experience—Can he handle the pressure of leading a win-now team with Durant & Booker?
- Will he be seen as an “Ishbia hire” rather than purely merit-based?
2. Johnnie Bryant – The Player Development Guru
Background:
- Also a Cavaliers assistant, but with a stronger player development résumé.
- Previously with the New York Knicks (helped develop Julius Randle, RJ Barrett).
- Worked closely with Donovan Mitchell (Utah Jazz) and Darius Garland (Cavs).
- Known for building relationships with star players—critical for managing egos in Phoenix.
Why Suns Could Be the Choice:
- Proven developer of talent—Could maximize role players around Durant, Booker, and Beal.
- Strong leadership presence—Players respect him; he’s seen as a future head coach.
- Culture builder—Phoenix needs stability, and Bryant has a history of fostering strong locker rooms.
Potential Concerns:
- Less play-calling experience—Will his in-game adjustments be as sharp as Ott’s?
- First-time head coach risk—Can he handle the immediate pressure of a contender?
Fan Sentiment & The Bigger Picture
Back on April 15, the day after the Suns parted ways with Mike Budenholzer, we polled the community to see who the fanbase wanted on the sideline. Willie Green topped the list with 31%, followed by ‘Other’ at 21%. It turns out Ott and Bryant were living quietly inside that ‘Other’ category.
Now, with just two names left, it’s time to take stock:
- Will your opinion of Jordan Ott be swayed by his Michigan State ties and proximity to Mat Ishbia, or will you weigh his credentials on their own merit?
- Do you value the player development résumé Johnnie Bryant has carefully built over years of work with rising stars and established vets alike?
This isn’t just about a clipboard and a title—it’s about who you believe can help reshape the Phoenix Suns into what they should be.
What’s Next?
The Suns are expected to make a decision by Friday. Here’s what to watch for:
If Ott is Hired:
- Expect a more structured offensive system with an emphasis on three-point shooting and pace.
- Potential for new assistant coaches to balance his lack of head coaching experience.
If Bryant is Hired:
- A stronger focus on player development, possibly reshaping the bench unit.
- Likely retention of key assistants to help with in-game strategy.
The Ultimate Question:
Is this hire about winning now (Ott’s schemes) or building for the long term (Bryant’s culture)?
Either way, the Suns can’t afford another misstep. This decision will define the next 3-5 years of the franchise.
Final Thoughts
The Suns’ coaching search has been exhausting but necessary. After years of short-term thinking, this feels like the first real attempt at long-term planning.
