Phoenix Suns owner Mat Ishbia is shifting away from a hands-off approach and plans to become more directly involved in shaping the franchise’s direction moving forward.
According to a report by Gerald Bourguet of GoPHNX.com, Ishbia emailed the Suns’ basketball operations team on Wednesday, acknowledging that his previous strategy of hiring experts and stepping aside had failed to produce results.
In the email, Ishbia took accountability for not building a sustainable culture or basketball identity during his first two seasons as owner.
He admitted to running what he described as the “typical NBA owner playbook”—signing checks and letting others lead—but said that approach left no one satisfied with the team’s trajectory.
Despite emphasizing that he will not be involved in reviewing film, designing offensive sets, or running the draft room, Ishbia confirmed he will now be “extremely active in the decisions and management.”
The franchise is coming off a 36–46 season that ended without a playoff appearance, prompting internal changes including the firing of head coach Mike Budenholzer and the hiring of Jordan Ott on May 1.
Ishbia’s memo made it clear he is no longer interested in pleasing public narratives or responding to media speculation, stating that he won’t make decisions to “win the press conference.”
The change in tone signals a new chapter for Phoenix, one that prioritizes internal accountability and a long-term strategy over short-term optics.
While external candidates like Johnnie Bryant and Chris Quinn were considered during the coaching search, team sources told PHNX that Ott was ultimately seen as the “obvious choice.”
Ott impressed the Suns during the interview process by exposing gaps in the organization’s current basketball strategy and showcasing what a team source called a “cutting-edge” offensive mindset.
His attention to league-wide trends, defensive innovation, and consistent work ethic were reportedly key factors in his selection.
The front office also sees Ott as a key figure in resetting the team’s culture alongside general manager Brian Gregory, who was hired on May 1 following the franchise’s disappointing finish.
With trade talks involving Kevin Durant already underway and the June 26 NBA Draft approaching, Ishbia’s increased presence in decision-making comes at a pivotal point.
Durant, who averaged 26.6 points across 62 games in 2024–25, is reportedly open to a move, and sources indicate that a trade could be finalized before the draft.
