Image Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

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Phoenix Suns Begin Rebuild with Jordan Ott Appointment as New Head Coach

Akash Vaishnav

Last updated: June 5, 2025

2 min read

Phoenix Suns begin their offseason shakeup by appointing young coach Jordan Ott

Image Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Phoenix Suns have confirmed their new head coach appointee ahead of an important off season. The Phoenix Suns have hired Cavaliers assistant Jordan Ott as their new head coach. The young appointment from the top brass suggests a shift in management philosophy.

The Suns have consistently underperformed over the past few seasons. They ended the season ranked 11th in the Western Conference standings. Suns had 36 wins and 46 losses throughout the campaign. With one of the league’s most expensive rosters, such results are deeply disappointing.

This is why a massive change was needed and that is when Mike Budenholzer was shown the door. It is interesting to note that new appointee Jordan Ott began his off-court stint in the league under Mike Budenholzer. The youngster started as a video coordinator for the Atlanta Hawks under Bud in 2013.

What they liked about Ott was work ethic/drive and a different level of sophistication with his offensive system than the other candidates. Got seal of approval from Devin Booker. And Steve Nash had very positive feedback as well.
— John Gambadoro (@Gambo987) June 4, 2025

He later served as an assistant coach for the Brooklyn Nets under Kenny Atkinson. After gaining coaching experience from his stints with Nets and Cavaliers, Jordan Ott joins the Phoenix Suns to make a monumental change.

The Suns conducted an extensive search, evaluating 15 candidates for the head coaching role. However, given the experience and age, the front office with the owners moved towards hiring Jordan Ott.

Ott’s Hiring Sparks Durant Trade Rumors

ESPN’s Shams Charania has reported that the Suns management is working with Kevin Durant to work on a trade especially after the appointment of Jordan Ott. He reported that negotiations are underway and the front office is working eagerly to come to a conclusion.

Roughly four to six teams are showing serious interest in acquiring the NBA legend. While other media reports suggest that Kevin Durant may incline towards joining the San Antonio Spurs. Their young and competitive roster aligns with Durant’s push for another ring.

Spurs also has the pieces to make a trade work. With Wembanyama returning and De’Aaron Fox regaining top form, the Spurs could transform dramatically if they land Kevin Durant. They are also in the win-now mode and could make some further moves in the off season.

Cleveland Cavaliers

Jordan Ott

Phoenix Suns

Akash Vaishnav

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I cover NBA at the Playoffs. I specialize in covering breaking news, Previews, in in-depth analysis (breaking down numbers, complex stats, nuances of the game, and converting them into reader-friendly content). Furthermore, I got into the sports media while looking for an entry into the media industry. I love International Relations, and since entry without majoring in the subject was difficult, I got into sports. Now, while majoring in International Relations on one side, I also like covering sports as part of the journey as a young Journalist.