NBA Trade Rumors: Phoenix Suns Cast Wide Net in Search for Fourth Head Coach in Four Seasons
After a disastrous 36–46 campaign and the firing of Mike Budenholzer just one year into his tenure, the Phoenix Suns are once again on the hunt for a new head coach—their fourth in as many seasons.
According to NBA insider Chris Haynes, the Suns are exploring a diverse mix of candidates, ranging from current assistants to former head coaches and even a college coach with Suns ties. The reported list includes:
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David Fizdale – Suns assistant; former head coach of the Grizzlies and Knicks
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Jared Dudley – Mavericks assistant; former Suns player and fan favorite
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Mike Brown – Former Kings and Cavaliers head coach; 2023 NBA Coach of the Year
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Willie Green – Current Pelicans head coach; former Suns assistant
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Chris Quinn – Heat assistant coach under Erik Spoelstra
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Johnnie Bryant – Cavaliers associate head coach
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Sean Sweeney – Mavericks assistant coach
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Royal Ivey – Rockets assistant and close to several star players
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Kevin Young – Former Suns assistant; currently head coach at BYU
A Critical Hire in a Tumultuous Era
This latest coaching search comes during a pivotal and chaotic time for the franchise. After building what was supposed to be a superteam trio of Devin Booker, Kevin Durant, and Bradley Beal, the Suns not only missed the playoffs but didn’t even qualify for the play-in.
Their lack of identity, chemistry, and defensive consistency ultimately doomed them—and now the roster may be blown up with Durant reportedly on the trade block and Beal’s future uncertain.
Meanwhile, Booker remains the centerpiece, and this hire will likely be made with his input and long-term fit in mind.
Intriguing Names to Watch
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Mike Brown brings the most head coaching experience and was Coach of the Year just two seasons ago. His emphasis on culture and defense might be exactly what this top-heavy Suns team needs.
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Jared Dudley is an emotional pick for Suns fans, having played seven seasons in Phoenix and reportedly being very well-liked among players. Though inexperienced, he could represent a fresh voice and a culture-builder.
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David Fizdale knows the current Suns roster well and has head coaching experience, though his past stints had mixed results.
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Willie Green’s inclusion is fascinating, as he's still with New Orleans. However, the recent firing of Pelicans executive David Griffin could signal larger changes are coming there, possibly opening the door for his departure.
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Kevin Young was reportedly a strong internal favorite last season before Vogel was hired. He could be back in the conversation.
Continuity Needed in the Valley
After Monty Williams, Frank Vogel, and Mike Budenholzer all failed to stick, Phoenix is clearly in need of stability. Hiring a coach who can establish a system, hold stars accountable, and grow with Booker will be critical.
With major roster moves looming, the Suns must hit on this hire—not just to stop the coaching carousel, but to set the tone for a new era in Phoenix.
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