PHOENIX — The search for the new head coach of the Phoenix Suns has narrowed to two potential candidates: Johnnie Bryant and Jordan Ott, who are both assistant coaches with the Cleveland Cavaliers. This information, shared by an insider familiar with the process, remains unofficial as the Suns have yet to make a formal announcement.
The team is in the process of finding their fourth coach in as many seasons, following the dismissal of Mike Budenholzer after a disappointing 36-46 season, which saw the Suns miss out on postseason play.
Both Bryant and Ott are scheduled for discussions with the Suns’ upper management later this week as Phoenix works to finalize its coaching decision.
Bryant, 39, has accumulated over a decade of experience within the NBA, previously serving as an assistant coach with the Utah Jazz and New York Knicks prior to his current role as associate head coach with the Cavaliers. His basketball journey also includes a stint as a college player at the University of Utah.
Meanwhile, Ott, 40, brings a diverse background, having contributed to the coaching staffs of several NBA teams, including the Atlanta Hawks, Brooklyn Nets, Los Angeles Lakers, and the Cavaliers. He also gained valuable experience as a video coordinator working under Tom Izzo at Michigan State—an institution connected to Suns owner Mat Ishbia, who walked onto the school’s basketball team from 1999 to 2003.