The Phoenix Suns are nearing the end of their most extensive head coaching search in recent memory, and franchise star Devin Booker is playing an active role in shaping the outcome.
According to Marc Stein, Booker has a “level of involvement” in the early stages of the interview process, signaling the organization’s commitment to keeping him as the face of the franchise.
This process comes on the heels of a disappointing 2024–25 campaign, during which Phoenix missed the postseason entirely and finished with its first losing record since the 2019–20 season.
Mike Budenholzer, who was hired to replace Frank Vogel just one year ago, was dismissed after only one season. Both of the Suns’ previous two coaching hires were veteran names who failed to meet expectations. This time, the organization is pursuing a new direction.
Finalists Emerge in Phoenix Suns’ Wide-Ranging Search
Phoenix has narrowed its list to five finalists, all of whom are current assistant coaches seeking their first opportunity as an NBA head coach.
Four of the five have already completed in-person interviews: Sean Sweeney of the Dallas Mavericks, Jordan Ott and Johnnie Bryant of the Cleveland Cavaliers, and Chris Quinn of the Miami Heat.
The fifth candidate, Oklahoma City Thunder assistant Dave Bliss, has not yet met with Suns officials in person due to OKC’s ongoing run to the NBA Finals. If needed, the Suns are expected to travel to Oklahoma City to complete the interview.
The decision to target first-time head coaches marks a significant shift in philosophy. Each of the finalists brings a blend of experience from respected coaching staffs, with strong reputations in areas such as player development, defensive strategy, and communication.
The Suns view this as a long-term investment rather than a quick fix, and the organization is prepared to hand the reins to a younger voice on the sidelines.
Devin Booker’s Growing Voice in Organizational Direction
Devin Booker’s involvement in the coaching search reflects his status not only as the Suns’ best player but as the centerpiece of the franchise’s identity and future.
His presence during the early phases of the interview process has been described as consultative, allowing the front office to gauge alignment between coaching candidates and Booker’s leadership style and preferences. It is part of a broader effort by owner Mat Ishbia to build a stable, Booker-centric structure that supports long-term success.
The front office has undergone changes as well. Brian Gregory, previously a vice president of player programming, now leads the basketball operations department after replacing James Jones. Jones has transitioned to a senior advisory role.
Gregory is steering the coaching search alongside Ishbia, who is expected to conduct final meetings with two candidates before a hire is finalized. That decision is expected before the NBA Finals begin.
Roster Questions Loom Amid Kevin Durant Speculation
While the coaching search is the current focus, Phoenix is also facing major questions about its roster construction. The trio of Booker, Kevin Durant, and Bradley Beal entered last season with championship expectations but failed to meet them.
According to Stein, there is a “belief leaguewide” that the Suns will explore the trade market for Durant this offseason. Beal’s future is also uncertain, although no definitive moves have been announced.
Phoenix began the 2024–25 season with the 12th-best odds to win the NBA Finals. Instead, they missed the playoffs altogether, resulting in back-to-back coaching changes and increased urgency to make structural changes. The Suns are now prioritizing a head coach who can bring strong communication skills, a defensive mindset, and a collaborative approach that maximizes Booker’s skillset.
What Comes Next
The Suns are expected to finalize their head coaching hire within days. Booker’s involvement is a key part of the organization’s effort to stabilize its direction and build a system that keeps him at the center of everything. Once a coach is selected, the front office will likely turn its attention to the trade market, where significant roster changes could follow.
For now, all signs point to a new era in Phoenix—one that starts with a younger voice on the sideline, a star player at the heart of the decision-making process, and a franchise determined to reclaim its place among the league’s elite.
