PHOENIX – The search for the next Phoenix Suns head coach is entering its final stage. According to Arizona Sports’ John Gambadoro the front office has just finished its second round of interviews with the final nine candidates. The first two rounds were held over Zoom with the final interview being held in Phoenix to determine the franchise’s next coach.
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Suns general manager Brian Gregory speaks during his introductory news conference on May 6, 2025, in Phoenix. Syndication: Arizona Republic
Suns final nine candidates:
- Sean Sweeney (Mavericks assistant)
- David Fizdale (Suns assistant)
- James Borrego (Pelicans assistant)
- Johnnie Bryant (Cavaliers assistant)
- Jordan Ott (Cavaliers assistant)
- Steve Hetzel (Nets assistant)
- Micah Nori (Timberwolves assistant)
- Dave Bliss (Thunder assistant)
- Chris Quinn (Heat assistant)
Aug 12, 2021; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; Brooklyn Nets Summer League head coach Jordan Ott reacts during a game against the Washington Wizards at Cox Pavillion. Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports
General manager Brian Gregory is leading the charge to figure out who’ll be the best to handle a hectic Suns team. Phoenix just went 36-46 last season and has the most expensive roster in the NBA. Star players like Kevin Durant is likely gone from the roster this offseason and any new coach will have to start from scratch to rebuild this franchise.
The organization has made it clear it wants a first-time head coach to help establish an identity and culture within the team. Owner Mat Ishbia mentioned in his end-of-season press conference, that the Suns needed to be an embodiment of what the city of Phoenix is to resurrect the roster and the fanbase.
Suns owner Mat Ishbia speaks with the press during a news conference at Footprint Center in Phoenix on May 1, 2024. Syndication: Arizona Republic
There is no quick fix to the problem ahead, which is why Gregory and his staff are taking their time in the coaching search. However, a final decision is likely to happen soon with the shift to the in-person interviews with the finalists. It is unknown at this time who makes up the final list of candidates.
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Reporter Tanner Tortorella covers general assignment for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @TannerTSports
