Phoenix Suns hire Cleveland Cavaliers assistant Jordan Ott as head coach after Devin Booker endorses him

The Phoenix Suns named Jordan Ott, the previous assistant coach for the Cleveland Cavaliers, as their new head coach. Both Booker and Ott were involved in the thorough search that preceded the appointment and Booker ultimately acknowledged Ott as his elected choice.

Because of Ott’s background and inspiring coaching, the Suns are hoping to inject new life into their team and compete at a higher level in the NBA.

Jordan Ott's Appointment Marks a New Era for Phoenix Suns

The Suns' choice to bring on Jordan Ott highlights their dedication to refreshing the team's strategy both on the court and beyond. Starting his NBA coaching career in 2013 as a video coordinator for the Atlanta Hawks, Ott has built up significant experience with teams such as the Brooklyn Nets, Los Angeles Lakers, and lately, the Cleveland Cavaliers.

His stint with the Cavaliers was particularly remarkable; they posted a league-leading 64-18 record in the 2024–25 season and had an offensive rating of 121.7, one of the highest ever recorded in the NBA.

The length of the hiring process was extensive and there were more than 15 first round interviews and six finalists which included potentially well known coaching names such as Johnnie Bryant, Chris Quinn and David Fizdale.

It was between Ott and Bryant who rose to the top as the main candidates and who both had a wealth of experience from their time with the Cavaliers. That decision finally was reached after in person discussions with team owner Mat Ishbia, CEO Josh Bartelstein and GM Brian Gregory.With these conversations, Devin Booker’s role in the discourse suggests that the organization is highlighting this idea of things like making sure, the choices that you are making to lead the organization align with the insights of the most important constituents that you have within the organization.The Suns have to decide whether to keep their players or look for new ones now that Ott is their new head coach. It has been said that there is a possibility the team will trade their All-Star forward Kevin Durant, as many teams seem interested in him this offseason.Also, with the 29th and 52nd picks coming up, the Suns can gain more talent in the draft. The team will need Ott’s understanding of player development to help with these process changes.Also Read: New York Knicks part ways with head coach Tom Thibodeau after historic Eastern Conference Finals run and best season in 25 yearsBacked by franchise star Devin Booker and a front office dedicated to careful rebuilding, Ott is ready to lead the Suns during this transformative phase. His history indicates he can develop a strong and united team, paving the way for an exciting new era in Phoenix basketball.