After almost 20 years as an NCAA Division I head coach at South Florida, Georgia Tech and Dayton, Brian Gregory is ready to be the brand new normal supervisor of the Suns, after a really poor 2024-25 marketing campaign. This summer time, the group might want to begin rebuilding their roster for subsequent season.
In all probability the primary purpose he has been chosen for the job is because of his 25-year relationship with franchise proprietor Mat Ishbia, as it’s unusual to see a profession transition from faculty to NBA entrance workplaces. Gregory is satisfied that his sturdy bond to the billionaire, will likely be an asset going ahead.
“I’m by no means going to draw back from the truth that one of many causes I’m sitting up right here is due to my relationship with Mat Ishbia,” Brian instructed the press final week. “However that relationship is based on our alignment. Shared values. Shared work ethic.”
Whereas many would suppose that his shut relationship to Ishbia would possibly develop into a problem, Gregory insists that belief inside the best roles of the group works as a bonus. “We’ve been by way of quite a bit collectively,” he expressed. “He trusts me and I belief him.”
Going into the offseason, the Phoenix membership should determined which trades have to be performed to enhance the general chemistry between the roster. It could appear that the overall supervisor’s most dear buying and selling chip is none aside from 15-time All-Star Kevin Durant.
The 37-year-old veteran averaged 26.6 factors on 53% capturing this previous marketing campaign. Bradley Beal, however, would possibly show to be more durable to commerce out as he’s due greater than $50 million subsequent yr. “I’ve an excellent relationship with each these guys,” the manager stated.
“Kevin gave me a pleasant hug within the weight room the opposite evening when the information got here throughout Twitter. Had an ideal dinner with Brad Beal final Thursday and we talked slightly about summer time plans and various things like that,” Gregory added. “My primary focus, to be sincere with you, is discovering the precise head coach for these guys.”
