Phoenix Suns Head Coaching Search: The Final Five
The Phoenix suns are narrowing their search for a new head coach,with a list of finalists emerging from a pool of talented assistant coaches across the NBA. The candidates bring a diverse range of experience and expertise to the table, each hoping to lead the Suns to new heights.
The Finalists
- Johnnie Bryant (Cleveland Cavaliers, Associate Head Coach)
- Jordan Ott (Cleveland Cavaliers, Assistant Coach)
- Chris Quinn (Miami Heat, Assistant Coach)
- Sean Sweeney (Dallas Mavericks, Assistant Coach)
- Dave Bliss (Oklahoma City Thunder, Assistant Coach)
meet the Candidates
Johnnie Bryant
Johnnie Bryant, currently the associate head coach for the Cleveland Cavaliers, boasts a coaching resume that includes stints with the Utah Jazz (2012-2020) and the New York Knicks (2021-2024). His experience spans over a decade, providing him with a deep understanding of player development and team dynamics.
Did you know? Johnnie Bryant is credited with playing a important role in the development of Donovan Mitchell during his time with the Utah jazz. Mitchell entered the league as a high-ceiling project and blossomed into an All-Star under Bryant’s guidance.
Bryant’s ability to connect with players and provide honest feedback has earned him respect throughout the league. Former Knicks forward Julius Randle acknowledged Bryant’s brutally honest assessment about Randle’s leadership.
Jordan Ott
Jordan Ott’s coaching journey includes learning from some of the NBA’s most respected minds, including Mike Budenholzer with the Atlanta Hawks (2013-2016), Kenny Atkinson, Jacque Vaughn, and Steve Nash on the Brooklyn nets (2016-2022), and Darvin Ham with the Los Angeles Lakers (2022-2024). His time with the Nets could give him an advantage, as he likely has familiarity with Suns assistant GM Matt Tellem during his run in Brooklyn from 2016-22.
Pro Tip: Ott’s five years as a video coordinator at Michigan State University could be a significant factor, given Phoenix owner Mat Ishbia’s and new general manager Brian Gregory’s ties to the school. These connections can sometimes play a subtle but crucial role in hiring decisions.
His diverse background provides him with a well-rounded viewpoint on coaching strategies and player development.
Chris Quinn
Chris quinn brings a unique perspective to the table, having played in the NBA from 2006-2013. This playing experience sets him apart from the rest of the reported Suns head-coaching candidates.
His time on the court gives him a player’s perspective that can be invaluable in coaching.
quinn is viewed as the embodiment of “Heat Culture” and Erik Spoelstra’s right-hand man.
Working under Erik Spoelstra,one of the NBA’s most accomplished coaches,has undoubtedly shaped Quinn’s coaching ideology and approach to the game.
Reader Question: How much does “Heat Culture” really matter? Is it just hype, or does it translate to wins?
He began his coaching career with Northwestern in 2013-2014 before joining the miami Heat, where he has been a key part of their coaching staff.
Sean Sweeney
Sean Sweeney’s coaching career is closely tied to Dallas head coach Jason Kidd. Sweeney began his coaching career as a video coordinator in 2013-2014 with the Brooklyn Nets, where Kidd was the head coach.
He followed Kidd to the Milwaukee Bucks and eventually landed back with him in Dallas, where he has built a reputation as a defensive mind.
His expertise in defensive strategies could be a valuable asset for the Suns.
Dave Bliss
Dave Bliss has been with the Oklahoma City Thunder as 2018, but his history with the team goes back further. He had an earlier stint as a video analyst and player development coach with the Thunder from 2010-2015.
Between his two stints with the Thunder, Bliss gained experience as a player development assistant with the New York Knicks and also spent time coaching the German national team. This diverse experience gives him a global perspective on basketball and player development.
Frequently Asked Questions
A: the finalists are Johnnie Bryant, jordan Ott, Chris Quinn, Sean Sweeney, and Dave Bliss.
A: Bryant has been an assistant for the Utah Jazz and New York Knicks before joining the Cleveland Cavaliers.
A: Quinn is viewed as the embodiment of “Heat Culture” and has worked closely with Erik Spoelstra.
