Suns Begin Second Round of Coaching Interviews With Some Familiar Names

As first reported by Arizona Sports’ John Gambadoro and The Stein Line’s Jake Fischer and Marc Stein, the nine names still in the mix are Mavericks assistant Sean Sweeney, Pelicans assistant James Borrego, Suns assistant David Fizdale, Cavaliers assistants Johnnie Bryant (pictured) and Jordan Ott, Nets assistant Steve Hetzel, Timberwolves assistant Micah Nori, Thunder assistant Dave Bliss and Heat assistant Chris Quinn.

Of those, only Borrego and Fizdale have prior NBA head coaching experience. The rest reflect what league insiders say is a deliberate shift: Phoenix wants someone younger, defensive-minded, and philosophically aligned with ownership and the front office.

After just one season under Mike Budenholzer — who replaced Frank Vogel, who lasted just one year himself — new general manager Brian Gregory is leading the process. He’s reportedly eyeing a coach who can “build a program from scratch,” emphasizing structure, accountability, and the kind of cultural reset that’s eluded the Suns since their 2021 Finals run.

NBA insider Chris Haynes notes that Fizdale previously declined an offer from the Suns under former owner Robert Sarver, eventually accepting the Knicks job instead. Borrego went 148–183 during four seasons with the Hornets and has yet to coach in the postseason.

According to reports, the Suns intend to trim the candidate list to three finalists before making a decision.

With the futures of Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal hanging in the balance, and rumors swirling around potential roster changes, the coaching hire could influence more than just the sideline. It may help shape the franchise’s entire direction.