PHOENIX – If something needs to be defended, there is not better person than Phoenix Suns owner Mat Ishbia. On the NBA’s opening night, Ishbia went on X to respond about an article posted on The Ringer by Michael Pina titled, “24 Increasingly Bold Predictions for the 2025-2026 season.” Pina’s 12th prediction was Phoenix to have the worst defense in the NBA, which he credited much of it to last years efforts.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Ishbia wasn’t too happy with the claim, posting directly to The Ringer’s Founder Bill Simmons to put his money where his mouth is with a bet.
Oct 28, 2023; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns owner Matt Ishbia greets fans during a Ring of Honor half time ceremony of the game against the Utah Jazz at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
Ishbia’s tweet calling out Simmons:
Simmons would respond to Ishbia by claiming that the owner couldn’t actually bet involving the NBA and the team’s success, while defending the article by pointing out it is “Bold” predictions. Regardless of the pithiness of the argument, this isn’t the first time Ishbia has gone on social media to push back on criticisms against the franchise.
Suns owner Mat Ishbia speaks with the press during a news conference at Footprint Center in Phoenix on May 1, 2024. © Patrick Breen/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK
The 45-year-old has constantly responded back to articles predicting the team to fail in this upcoming season, whether ESPN or its analyst like Stephen A. Smith or Kendrick Perkins. Ishbia is a very vocal owner and generous when it comes to giving money back to charity. He has given millions to his Alma Mater Michigan State and given away tickets to fans on social media.
The roster has undergone plenty of new changes, adding Dillon Brooks, Jalen Green and much more. The new additions will likely fix a rough defensive outing last year, that plagued the Suns all season.
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Reporter Tanner Tortorella covers general assignment for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @TannerTSports
