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New Suns head coach Jordan Ott adds first assistant to staff

Originally posted on Burn City Sports
By Tanner Tortorella | Last updated Jun 12, 2025 6:13 PM ET

The Phoenix Suns introduced new head coach Jordan Ott on Tuesday, and he is already making moves a couple days later. During the press conference, Ott said filling out his staff will take time and will be done throughout the month to come. The first piece of his staff has been revealed by NBA Insider Michael Scotto, who reported that former NBA player and coach DeMarre Carroll will be joining Ott’s staff next season.

Scotto on Suns Ott bringing in Carroll:

JUST IN: Phoenix Suns coach Jordan Ott has added DeMarre Carroll as an assistant coach on his bench, league sources told @hoopshype. Ott coached Carroll with the Brooklyn Nets and both worked together as assistant coaches for the Los Angeles Lakers and Cleveland Cavaliers. pic.twitter.com/MWgEJc20qB

— Michael Scotto (@MikeAScotto) June 12, 2025

Carroll was an 11-year pro and played for eight different teams during his career. The 38-year-old finished his playing career averaging 8.9 points, 4.2 rebounds and 1.3 assists in 578 games played. He began coaching in 2022, when Carroll joined his former head coach Mike Budenholzer staff with the Milwaukee Bucks. Carroll bounced from different teams the next two seasons, going to the Los Angeles Lakers to the Cleveland Cavaliers this past season.

Ott grabs steals another assistant from his former team in Carroll and is continuing to build a young staff in Phoenix. Owner Mat Ishbia and general manager Mat Ishiba stated they wanted a young, first-time head coach at the helm. The new Suns head coach fits that bill and is bringing in young, likeminded coaches to help rebuild the franchise heading into next season.

This article first appeared on Burn City Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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