The Phoenix Suns organization recently unveiled its comprehensive coaching roster for the forthcoming 2025-26 NBA season. This strategic assembly, led by newly appointed head coach Jordan Ott, signals a concerted effort to recalibrate the team's trajectory following a less-than-stellar performance in the preceding season. The additions bring a blend of seasoned NBA coaching acumen, direct playing experience, and specialized player development expertise to the forefront, aiming to cultivate a winning environment.
Among the notable figures joining Ott's staff are Jesse Mermuys, DeMarre Carroll, Brian Randle, Chaisson Allen, John Little, and Mike Muscala, all stepping into assistant coaching roles. Each individual brings a unique set of skills and background to the team. Mermuys, a native of Tucson, boasts a remarkable 17-year tenure as an NBA assistant, distinguished by his pivotal contributions to elevating team defensive efficiencies, notably with the Orlando Magic, where his influence resulted in top-tier defensive ratings. Carroll, fresh off leading the Suns' Summer League squad in 2025 and contributing to Cleveland's impressive 64-win season, transitions from an 11-year NBA playing career, offering invaluable player perspective and leadership insights. Randle's return to Phoenix marks a reunion with the franchise where he was instrumental in their 2021 NBA Finals run, ensuring continuity and familiarity within the coaching ranks after a period with Washington. Allen, already part of the Suns' structure, continues his role, leveraging his G League coaching background from the Wisconsin Herd to bolster player development initiatives. John Little, who guided the Valley Suns to a strong 20-14 record and playoff contention in the G League, brings a proven track record of developmental success. Furthermore, Mike Muscala embarks on his coaching journey after a distinguished 548-game NBA playing career, providing current players with mentorship from an experienced professional. Sean Dwyer, with his extensive collegiate coaching background from institutions like Loyola Chicago, Cincinnati, Alabama, and Michigan State, adds another layer of diverse experience. Rounding out the staff is Mateen Cleaves, a 2000 NCAA champion, who will serve as a player development and leadership assistant, drawing upon his own six-year NBA playing career and leadership qualities.
This significant overhaul of the coaching staff is a cornerstone of the Suns' broader strategy to reconstruct their team identity. The offseason has seen substantial roster changes, including the departures of key players Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal. In their place, promising talents like Jalen Green and Khaman Maluach are set to take on more prominent roles, signaling a shift towards nurturing new potential. Despite these changes, Devin Booker, whose contract extension secures his presence with the team through the 2029-30 season, remains the undisputed anchor and cornerstone of the franchise, now entering his eleventh season. The collective aim of this newly assembled coaching and playing roster is to inject new energy, refine strategies, and foster a culture that propels the Phoenix Suns back into contention, building on the foundation of renewed talent and experienced guidance.
The meticulous assembly of this coaching group underscores the Phoenix Suns' commitment to fostering a winning culture and maximizing the potential of their revamped roster. The diversity of experience, ranging from long-standing NBA assistantships to recent playing careers and G League successes, provides a multi-faceted approach to player development and strategic game planning. This comprehensive team structure reflects the organization's determination to overcome past setbacks and lay a robust foundation for future achievements on the court.
