PHOENIX – The Phoenix Suns have made an intriguing move by hiring veteran NBA coach Steve Clifford as a coaching advisor to help guide the team into its next chapter.
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Apr 12, 2024; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Charlotte Hornets head coach Steve Clifford watches from the sideline as they take on the Boston Celtics at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-Imagn Images
Known for his defensive coaching skills and no-nonsense approach, Clifford brings more than a decade of head coaching experience from his stints as head coach of the Charlotte Hornets and Orlando Magic. Throughout his career, Clifford has established a reputation during his 23 years as a coach by instilling structure and discipline, especially on the defensive end. During his time as a head coach in Charlotte, the Hornets had an above-average per net rating each year under the guidance of Clifford. (Credit: Matt Alquiza | Sports Illustrated)
Just In: The Phoenix Suns are hiring Steve Clifford as a coaching advisor, sources told @hoopshype. Clifford has 23 seasons of NBA coaching experience, including head coaching stints with the Hornets and Magic. He was also an assistant for the Knicks, Rockets, Magic and Lakers. pic.twitter.com/hiroGGN0cR
— Michael Scotto (@MikeAScotto) August 13, 2025
Mar 29, 2024; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Charlotte Hornets head coach Steve Clifford calls a play against the Golden State Warriors during the first quarter at Spectrum Center. Mandatory Credit: Nell Redmond-Imagn Images
For Phoenix, the move comes at a crucial juncture. Clifford will be surely be a helping hand for the new Phoenix Suns Head Coach Jordan Ott. In recent seasons, defensive lapses and inconsistent effort have cost the Suns in critical playoff moments. Clifford’s track record suggests he can address those gaps, ensuring the team’s elite scoring is supported by a playoff-ready defense. He will be a familiar face for some, as he will rejoin former Charlotte Hornets players Mark Williams and Nick Richards.
Since 2025 began, the Suns have taken from Charlotte:
• Nick Richards
• Vasa Micic
• Cody Martin
• Mark Williams
• Steve CliffordPhoenix is becoming “Charlotte West” 🌵 pic.twitter.com/5WqEcoIVT3
— Hornets Muse (@_HornetsMuse_) August 13, 2025
For Suns fans, this hire represents more than just a change on the sidelines. It’s a signal that the organization is serious about balancing flair with fundamentals. In a loaded Western Conference where every possession counts, and Clifford’s steady hand and defensive blueprint could be the difference between another early exit and a deep playoff run.
Mar 1, 2024; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Charlotte Hornets head coach Steve Clifford looks on during the first quarter against the Philadelphia 76ers at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images
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Reporter Benjamin Bliklen covers the Arizona Diamondbacks, Arizona Cardinals, and Phoenix Suns for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @BenBliklen
