**Jordan Ott Set to Become Head Coach of the Phoenix Suns**

Jordan Ott is set to take on his first head coaching role with the Phoenix Suns, following reports from multiple sources. The 40-year-old former Michigan State basketball video coordinator has emerged as the leading candidate after intense evaluations by the Suns' management.

Earlier this week, Ott was reported to be in the final running for the head coaching position, contending with Cleveland Cavaliers assistant Johnnie Bryant. Both candidates were interviewed by Suns owner Mat Ishbia, general manager Brian Gregory, and CEO Josh Bartelstein in Michigan.

Ott is replacing Mike Budenholzer, who was let go after just one season with the Suns. The decision to move on comes on the heels of a disappointing 36-46 record in the regular season, marking another change in leadership – the fourth head coaching change in four seasons for the team.

Before his tenure in Cleveland, Ott served as an assistant coach with the Brooklyn Nets from 2016 to 2022 and later with the Los Angeles Lakers until 2024. His NBA journey began as a video coordinator with the Atlanta Hawks, following five years as a video coordinator on Tom Izzo’s staff at Michigan State while completing a Master’s degree.

Ott is the first former staff member of the Spartans to become an NBA head coach since Jim Boylen's time with the Chicago Bulls from 2018 to 2020. The Phoenix Suns organization currently has significant ties to Michigan State, with both Ishbia and Gregory having been part of the university's basketball program. Ishbia was a walk-on player, and Gregory was an assistant coach for the team that won the national championship in 2000.

Despite their shared Michigan State background, Ishbia and Ott met for the first time during the interview process. Reports from PHNX Sports indicate that Ott left a strong impression on the Suns' leadership and franchise star Devin Booker. Four-time NBA All-Star Booker reportedly endorsed Ott as his top choice for the coaching position, adding weight to the decision.

Ott's appointment marks a significant step in his career and brings fresh hope to a Phoenix Suns team aiming for a successful turnaround in the upcoming season.