Overview

• The Phoenix Suns have reduced their coaching candidate pool to eight individuals, including Sean Sweeney, David Fizdale, James Borrego, Johnnie Bryant, Jordan Ott, Steve Hetzel, Micah Nori, and Dave Bliss.
• Only two candidates, David Fizdale and James Borrego, have prior head coaching experience, reflecting a focus on younger, energetic coaching talent.
• The search is guided by five criteria: program building, defensive philosophy, accountability, youthful energy, and alignment with star players.
• This marks a departure from the Suns' previous star-driven Big 3 approach, with a new emphasis on defense and a grind-it-out playing style.
• New GM Brian Gregory, promoted earlier this month, is spearheading the process as part of a broader organizational shift under owner Mat Ishbia.