Mat Ishbia setting tone for Phoenix Suns and Mercury with involvement and new hands-on approach

Mat Ishbia has only been the owner of the Phoenix Suns and Mercury for a short time, but he’s already making it clear that he wants to be more involved. The former college basketball player turned billionaire doesn’t see ownership as just sitting courtside. For Ishbia, it’s about putting his fingerprints on the culture, the roster, and the direction of the franchise. Ishbia recently said in an interview that he is going to be way more involved with the Phoenix Suns and Mercury. “If people don’t want me involved they’re not gonna want to cheer for the Suns or Mercury because now I’m involved… I’m gonna do it the way I believe” (Credit: PHNX Suns)

Mat Ishbia’s recent history with the Phoenix Suns and Mercury:

Phoenix Suns Owner Mat Ishbia wasted little time making headlines, as his front office pulled off blockbuster deals to bring Kevin Durant and later Bradley Beal to Phoenix. The massive move didn’t pan out and ended in disastrous fashion, and now some question how beneficial would it be for the Suns and Mercury if Ishbia’s involvement grows. Moves like that don’t happen though without an owner who’s aggressive and willing to back up his vision with resources. It sent a message across the league, the Suns aren’t waiting around, they’re fighting to be in contention.

This matters for Phoenix Suns fans specifically in many ways, as they have seen plenty of highs and lows over these recent years. The Suns reached the Finals in 2021, but the window to win at the highest level is never guaranteed. Having an owner who’s engaged and invested gives the organization a different kind of stability. Ishbia isn’t just talking about building a winner, he’s showing it with action.

The NBA is shifting toward owners who want to be part of the story, not just behind it. Owners such as Steve Ballmer with the Clippers, who have remained active owners while being the face behind the culture change often set the tone for how a franchise operates. Ishbia’s desire to be hands-on puts him right in that mix. For the Phoenix Suns and Mercury, that could mean bold decisions and a future shaped by a leader who refuses to settle.