The Phoenix Suns experienced a dismal 2024-25 season, leading to significant changes within the organization. Following the disappointment of having the league’s highest-priced roster and failing to reach the playoffs, Mat Ishbia, the owner, is determined to take an active role moving forward.

Mat Ishbia
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After Brian Gregory was promoted to general manager, taking over from James Jones, and with Jordan Ott hired as the new coach following Mike Budenholzer’s brief tenure, Ishbia is preparing to exert more influence over team operations. He relayed his commitment to being “extremely active” in making tough decisions and shaping the team’s direction.

Ishbia previously stated that he attempted to retain a hands-off approach, following the conventional route for NBA owners—such as hiring experts and letting them run the show. However, the past season’s results have prompted him to reconsider.

“I tried running the typical NBA owner playbook of hiring experts, signing checks and getting out of the way, but no one was happy with the outcome,” Ishbia reportedly communicated to the team’s staff.

With the upcoming summer promising roster reconfigurations, including moves involving Kevin Durant, the Suns await to see if Ishbia’s more involved strategy yields a better outcome.