The Phoenix Suns have made significant progress in their search for a new head coach, narrowing their list of potential candidates to eight individuals. These finalists will move on to a second round of interviews, which is set to take place over the coming week as the organization continues to evaluate who will lead the team moving forward.
The eight candidates still in contention are Sean Sweeney, David Fizdale, James Borrego, Johnnie Bryant, Jordan Ott, Steve Hetzel, Micah Nori, and Dave Bliss – each bringing a unique blend of coaching experience, development focus, and familiarity with successful NBA systems.
Sean Sweeney is currently an assistant coach under Jason Kidd with the Dallas Mavericks. Known for his defensive strategies and player development skills, Sweeney has also served on coaching staffs with the Brooklyn Nets, Milwaukee Bucks, and Detroit Pistons.
David Fizdale is already part of the Suns organization as an assistant coach. He brings head coaching experience from previous stints with the Memphis Grizzlies and New York Knicks, as well as a reputation for strong player relationships.
James Borrego is an assistant coach with the New Orleans Pelicans. A veteran in the coaching ranks, he previously served as head coach of the Charlotte Hornets and held an interim head coaching role with the Orlando Magic.
Johnnie Bryant is currently an assistant with the Cleveland Cavaliers under Kenny Atkinson. He has also held assistant coaching roles with the Utah Jazz and the New York Knicks, earning praise for his work in player development.
Jordan Ott, also on the Cavaliers’ coaching staff, has prior experience with the Brooklyn Nets and Los Angeles Lakers. He’s considered a bright, rising mind in the league’s coaching circles.
Steve Hetzel is serving as an assistant coach with the Brooklyn Nets and brings a wealth of experience, having worked with the Detroit Pistons, Charlotte Hornets, Orlando Magic, and Portland Trail Blazers in various coaching capacities.
Micah Nori is an assistant coach with the Minnesota Timberwolves on Chris Finch’s staff. He notably stepped in as the acting head coach during last season’s playoffs while Finch recovered from surgery. Nori’s résumé includes stops with the Toronto Raptors, Sacramento Kings, Denver Nuggets, and Detroit Pistons.
Dave Bliss is part of the Oklahoma City Thunder’s coaching staff and has also worked as an assistant with the New York Knicks. Known for his analytical approach and player development acumen, Bliss is seen as a rising candidate in coaching circles.
With a wide range of experience, from veteran former head coaches to promising young assistants, the Suns are carefully weighing their options as they seek the best fit to guide their talented roster into the future.
Suns Narrow Head Coach Candidate List To 8 Candidates https://t.co/wORCZr6kZj
— RealGM (@RealGM) May 18, 2025
