The Phoenix Suns have hired Cleveland Cavaliers assistant coach Jordan Ott as their new head coach. Sources confirmed the news on Wednesday, following a series of interviews with Ott and fellow Cavalier assistant Johnnie Bryant earlier in the week.
Ott, 40, has been an NBA assistant coach since 2012 and is known for his strong communication skills and ability to adapt to changing trends. He joins the Suns after previously working under coaches Kenny Atkinson, Jacque Vaughn, Steve Nash, Darvin Ham, and Mike Budenholzer.
The Suns’ coaching search was led by General Manager Brian Gregory, who conducted over 15 interviews before narrowing down the list to six finalists: Ott, Bryant, Chris Quinn, Sean Sweeney, Dave Bliss, and David Fizdale. Ott’s hiring marks the fourth different coach in four seasons for the team.
Ott has a strong track record of player development and creativity on both offense and defense. He will work with All-Star forward Kevin Durant and his business partner Rich Kleiman to develop a new roster during the upcoming offseason. The Suns are expected to have a robust market for Durant’s services, with approximately four to six teams interested in acquiring him.
This marks a significant change for the Cavaliers, who had an Eastern Conference-best 64 wins this season under coach Kenny Atkinson.
Source: https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/45450487/sources-suns-hiring-cavs-assistant-jordan-ott-head-coach