As Brian Gregory, the new general manager of the Phoenix Suns, prepares to address the media Tuesday, the prevailing expectation is that the team will seek a first-time NBA head coach to fill their current vacancy. the search is expected to be wide-ranging, with several names already surfacing as potential candidates.

The Candidates: A Deep Dive

Here’s a closer look at some of the individuals reportedly under consideration:

• Adam Caporn: The Washington Wizards assistant coach is reportedly in the mix. He recently took on the head coaching role for australia’s men’s national basketball team, building on his experience as an assistant during their last four major tournament campaigns, including a bronze medal win at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
• Cleveland Cavaliers Assistants:
  • Jordan Ott: Ott, who recently worked with Cavaliers Defensive Player of the Year Evan Mobley, was a finalist for the Hornets head coach position last offseason alongside Charles Lee.
  • Johnnie Bryant: As associate head coach for the Cavaliers, Bryant helped guide the team to the No.1 seed in the East. His reunion with Donovan Mitchell, whom he previously developed in Utah, adds an intriguing dynamic. Before Cleveland, Bryant spent four seasons as an associate head coach with the Knicks.
• Houston Rockets Assistants:
  • Royal Ivey: A former 10-year NBA veteran, ivey is known for his strong rapport with players. His recent performance as South Sudan’s head coach in the Olympics has impressed executives across the league.
  • Ben Sullivan: Sullivan has a reputation for developing shooters and has worked under notable coaches such as Ime Udoka,Joe mazzulla,Mike Budenholzer (twice),and gregg Popovich.
• Dallas Mavericks Assistants:
  • Sean Sweeney: Sweeney was a finalist for Detroit’s vacancy this past offseason, alongside JB Bickerstaff, and has been a contender for head coaching positions for several years.
  • Jared Dudley: Dudley, a former Suns forward, is known for his ability to connect with players at all levels. He has been an assistant coach on Jason Kidd’s staff in Dallas since the 2021-22 season.
• Dave Bliss: The Oklahoma City Thunder’s lead assistant coach and defensive coordinator, Bliss, helped guide the team to a first-round sweep of the Memphis Grizzlies.
• Chris Quinn: The Miami Heat associate head coach has been with the association for 10 years after a seven-year NBA playing career.

Experienced Candidates in the Mix

Phoenix is also considering candidates with prior head coaching experience, including Dave Joerger and James Borrego.

• Dave Joerger: Joerger achieved 50-plus wins twice with Memphis in his first two seasons as head coach, reaching the Western Conference Semifinals. He later coached the Sacramento Kings for three seasons and served as an assistant coach for the Philadelphia 76ers and Milwaukee Bucks.
• James Borrego: Borrego led the Charlotte Hornets to consecutive seasons of notable enhancement before becoming the Pelicans associate head coach.

The Importance of Player Relationships

Several candidates are noted for their ability to connect with players. Jared Dudley, such as, is known for his ability to connect with players of all levels, including superstars, role players, and rookies. Royal Ivey, with his 10-year NBA career, is also well-liked and relatable with players.

Coaching Philosophies and Growth

ben Sullivan is known around the league for developing shooters, a crucial skill in today’s NBA. Johnnie Bryant’s success in developing Donovan Mitchell in Utah highlights his ability to nurture talent. Jordan Ott’s work with Evan Mobley showcases his defensive coaching prowess.

Quotable Moments

The search for a new head coach is often filled with speculation and analysis. Here are a few key insights:

The belief remains that Phoenix will target a first-time NBA head coach to fill their vacancy.