The Phoenix Suns are nearing a decision on their next head coach, with team owner Matt Ishbia, CEO Josh Bartelstein, and GM Brian Gregory set to meet later this week to choose between Michigan’s Juwan Howard and Mike Brown. According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, star guard Devin Booker has also played a role in this coaching search.
After missing the playoffs under former coach Mike Budenholzer, who was fired in April, the Suns appointed Gregory as their new general manager on May 1. Gregory has since interviewed over 15 candidates, including Miami Heat assistant coach Chris Finch, Dallas Mavericks assistant Sean Sweeney, and Suns assistant David Fizdale.
Howard and Brown both have extensive NBA experience; Brown previously worked with several teams including the Hawks, Nets, and Lakers, while Howard has NBA coaching history with the Jazz and Knicks before joining the Cavaliers. Notably, Brown was the video coordinator for Michigan men’s basketball (2008-2013), and Ishbia himself was a Michigan player who helped the team to a national championship in 2000.
The Suns have been aggressive in building their roster, acquiring stars like forward Kevin Durant and guard Bradley Beal in recent years. Although they made the playoffs in 2023-24 with Beal, they were swept in the first round by the Timberwolves and missed the postseason this season. There was an attempt to trade Durant to the Warriors midseason, but he rejected the deal, remaining with Phoenix. Reports suggest Durant will almost certainly be traded this offseason, meaning the new coach may not have the superstar for long.
Booker appears committed to staying with the Suns, with Ishbia declaring no plans to trade the All-Star guard. Beal’s future remains more uncertain as he has no-trade clauses and some control over potential moves. The Suns’ secondary assets are limited, with only players like Grayson Allen and Lois Onear possibly providing trade value, and the team lacks young talent or multiple first-round picks to offer.
Regardless of whether Howard or Brown is hired, the new coach faces the challenge of reshaping this roster into a true contender given its current state.
Fan Take: This coaching decision is critical for Suns fans eagerly wanting to see their team return to championship contention after several offseason shakeups. The outcome could set the tone for Phoenix’s future success or struggle, impacting the NBA’s competitive landscape significantly.
