Brian Gregory, with a career of almost two decades as a head coach in NCAA Division I, takes on a new challenge in his career.
A Key Link in Phoenix
Gregory’s arrival at the Phoenix Suns’ general management marks an unusual transition from the college benches to the NBA office. The 25-year connection with Suns owner Mat Ishbia is the main factor behind this change. Although some might see it as a disadvantage, Gregory is confident that this relationship will be a valuable asset in the team’s reconstruction.
“I am never going to shy away from the fact that one of the reasons I’m here is because of my relationship with Mat Ishbia. That relationship is based on our alignment. Shared values. Shared work ethic. We’ve been through a lot together. He trusts me and I trust him.”
Brian Gregory
Gregory, 58, was promoted to the general manager position last week, with James Jones assuming the role of senior advisor. Oronde Taliaferro was promoted to assistant general manager, and Paul Rivers will add basketball operations responsibilities to his role as director of innovation.
The relationship between Gregory and Ishbia goes back to their time at Michigan State, where Ishbia was a player and Gregory an assistant coach.
Reconstruction in Progress
The Suns, who finished last season with a disappointing 36-46 record, are looking to revitalize themselves after an unsuccessful season despite having an expensive roster led by Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal.
Gregory’s first challenge will be to hire a new head coach, replacing Mike Budenholzer, who was fired after a single season.
Owner Mat Ishbia has expressed his desire for future Suns teams to display “determination, work ethic, and joy.”
Durant could be the key piece to make moves in the market, while Beal could be more difficult to transfer.
“My main focus, to be honest, is finding the right head coach for those guys.”
Brian Gregory
Gregory, who joined the Suns in 2023, has had influence on the selection of young players such as Ryan Dunn and Oso Ighodaro, who could fit with Ishbia’s vision for the team.
