The Phoenix Suns aimed for championship success in the 2024–25 NBA season, led by a star lineup including Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal. Despite these high hopes, the Suns ended the season with a disappointing 36-46 record, placing 11th in the Western Conference and missing the playoffs for the first time since 2020. This unexpected result has prompted significant organizational changes, with a focus on Kevin Durant and Phoenix Suns coaching update.
Following the underwhelming season, the Suns fired head coach Mike Budenholzer after only one year, despite his five-year, $50 million contract. Budenholzer faced challenges in uniting the roster and reportedly struggled to connect with key figures such as Booker and Durant. This marks the third straight year the Suns have replaced their head coach, after previous dismissals of Monty Williams and Frank Vogel.
The team’s front office is actively searching for a new coach to provide stability and help harness the full potential of the roster next season. One emerging candidate gaining attention is Jordan Ott, an assistant coach with the Cleveland Cavaliers who joined their staff in 2024. Ott’s past includes assistant roles with the Los Angeles Lakers and Brooklyn Nets, where he notably developed a working relationship with Durant during his time with Brooklyn.
Journalist Duane Rankin of AZ Central highlighted Ott’s connection to Durant, stating,
“Ott also has ties to Suns superstar Kevin Durant, who was in Brooklyn from 2019 to right before the 2023 trade deadline when the Suns acquired him in a blockbuster deal. Durant’s future with the Suns is uncertain as the team entertained trade talks for him before the 2025 trade deadline, but he and Ott have worked together.”
—Duane Rankin, AZ Central
This coaching consideration aligns with reports from NBA insider Jake Fischer, who revealed that a return to Phoenix for Durant
“has not been fully ruled out”
amid ongoing trade rumors. The Suns’ interest in Ott could indicate a strategy to maintain Durant’s involvement and influence, given their previous collaborations.
Ott’s coaching experience with the Nets from 2016 to 2022 included working closely with Durant through three seasons, a factor likely influencing Phoenix’s evaluation. The Suns hope that bringing in someone familiar with Durant and their playing style might strengthen the team’s chemistry.
With coaching changes and Durant’s future both uncertain, Phoenix’s direction for the coming season remains a focal point for fans and analysts alike. The organization’s decisions on leadership and roster composition will be crucial in determining whether the Suns can rebound and return to postseason contention.