A Veteran Presence to Guide the Future: Suns Add Coaching Royalty
The Unannounced Strategic Acquisition
Despite a recent official announcement detailing the new coaching lineup under first-year head coach Jordan Ott, the Phoenix Suns have made an additional, unpublicized, and impactful hire. This behind-the-scenes maneuver signals a proactive approach to strengthening their organizational expertise.
Steve Clifford's New Role and Extensive Background
Sources indicate that the Suns are bringing on board Steve Clifford, a seasoned figure in the basketball world, in a coaching advisory capacity. Clifford, who will soon turn 64, boasts a rich history of leadership within the NBA. His head coaching tenures include stints with the Charlotte Hornets (2013-2018, 2022-2024) and the Orlando Magic (2018-2021). Throughout his career at the helm, he accumulated a regular-season record of 340 wins and 461 losses, leading his teams to the playoffs in four out of ten seasons.
A Wealth of Experience Beyond Head Coaching
Clifford's impressive resume extends far beyond his head coaching roles. From 2001 to 2013, he served as an assistant coach for several prominent NBA franchises, including the New York Knicks, Houston Rockets, Orlando Magic, and Los Angeles Lakers. This period was crucial in refining his strategic understanding and preparing him for subsequent leadership positions. Prior to his extensive NBA career, Clifford dedicated approximately 15 years to college basketball, where he also held both assistant and head coaching roles, further cementing his deep roots in the sport.
Filling a Critical Mentorship Gap for the New Head Coach
Initially, the Suns had sought a lead assistant with previous head coaching experience to support Jordan Ott. Although this specific profile wasn't met by the officially announced top assistants—Jesse Mermuys, DeMarre Carroll, and Brian Randle—the addition of Clifford as an advisor effectively addresses this need. His presence offers Ott an invaluable resource: a knowledgeable and trusted mentor who can provide seasoned advice and strategic insights as he embarks on his inaugural season as an NBA head coach. This move underscores the Suns' commitment to ensuring a strong support system for their new leadership.
