The Phoenix Suns have made a bold and potentially franchise-altering move by hiring Jordan Ott as their new head coach. The former Cleveland Cavaliers assistant steps into one of the NBA’s most high-pressure positions, with a star-studded roster and sky-high expectations hanging in the balance.
Ott, known for his analytical approach and developmental focus, inherits a team built to win now. With future Hall of Famers like Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal on the roster, the Suns are not in a rebuilding phase—they’re in a redemption phase. After falling short in recent playoff runs and struggling to meet the lofty goals set by their front office and fans alike, Phoenix is looking for more than just a fresh voice. They’re looking for a leader who can turn elite talent into championship results.
What makes Ott’s hire intriguing is his background. While not a household name among casual fans, Ott has spent over a decade rising through the NBA’s coaching ranks. He served under some of the league’s most respected coaches and helped develop systems that maximized player strengths. Most recently with the Cavaliers, Ott was instrumental in their offensive retooling and worked closely with younger stars on skill refinement and game planning.
In Phoenix, he won’t be working with unproven players—he’ll be tasked with managing egos, maximizing veteran productivity, and forging a cohesive identity out of one of the league’s most talent-rich rosters. His ability to bring a modern, flexible offensive scheme and emphasize defensive discipline could be exactly what this Suns team needs.
Owner Mat Ishbia and General Manager James Jones have shown no hesitation in making aggressive moves. Last season’s acquisition of Beal and prior blockbuster trade for Durant signaled an all-in mentality. Hiring Ott continues that trend but adds a twist—this move is more about building sustainable, intelligent systems around the stars than simply stacking more firepower.
With training camp on the horizon and the basketball world watching closely, the Ott era in Phoenix begins under the weight of immense expectations. The Valley is ready for a revival, and Jordan Ott has the opportunity—and the pressure—to deliver on a long-awaited championship dream. Whether this gamble pays off will be one of the most compelling stories of the 2025 NBA season