The Phoenix Suns have long been a franchise teetering on the brink of greatness, with flashes of brilliance often overshadowed by near misses and untimely setbacks. However, as the 2025-26 NBA season approaches, the organization has made a bold statement by assembling one of the most dynamic and innovative coaching staffs in recent memory. This strategic overhaul signals a renewed commitment to championship contention, blending experience, fresh perspectives, and tactical ingenuity to unlock the full potential of a roster brimming with star power.
At the helm of this new era is head coach Mike Budenholzer, a two-time NBA Coach of the Year whose pedigree includes leading the Milwaukee Bucks to a championship in 2021. Budenholzer’s hiring marks a significant shift in Phoenix’s approach, as his systematic yet adaptable coaching philosophy promises to maximize the talents of Devin Booker, Kevin Durant, and the Suns’ supporting cast. Known for his offensive creativity and defensive discipline, Budenholzer brings a proven track record of elevating teams to elite status. His ability to foster a winning culture while maintaining strong player relationships makes him the ideal leader to steer Phoenix back to the NBA’s upper echelon.
But the Suns’ coaching revolution doesn’t stop with Budenholzer. The front office has surrounded him with a carefully curated group of assistants, each bringing a unique skill set to the table. Among the most notable additions is former NBA point guard and coaching prodigy Chauncey Billups, whose basketball IQ and championship experience as a player provide invaluable insights for the Suns’ backcourt. Billups’ ability to mentor young guards while offering strategic input in late-game situations could prove pivotal in tight playoff matchups.
Equally critical is the arrival of Becky Hammon, who joins the staff after making history as one of the most respected assistant coaches in the league during her tenure with the San Antonio Spurs and later as a head coach in the WNBA. Hammon’s offensive ingenuity and player development expertise add another layer of sophistication to Phoenix’s game planning. Her presence also underscores the Suns’ commitment to diversity and forward-thinking leadership, setting a new standard for coaching staff composition across the NBA.
Defensive specialist Dan Burke, a longtime architect of some of the league’s most stifling defenses with the Indiana Pacers, has also been brought aboard to address one of Phoenix’s lingering weaknesses. Despite their offensive firepower, the Suns have occasionally struggled to contain elite opponents in high-leverage moments. Burke’s no-nonsense approach and emphasis on communication and positioning could transform Phoenix into a more balanced and formidable unit on both ends of the floor.
Rounding out the staff is young analytics savant Nick Friedman, whose work with player tracking data and in-game adjustments has earned him a reputation as one of the brightest minds in basketball operations. Friedman’s role will be crucial in optimizing lineup combinations, managing player workloads, and exploiting opponent tendencies—a must in today’s data-driven NBA landscape.
The synergy between these coaches is already generating buzz across the league. Early reports from training camp suggest a renewed sense of energy and purpose among players, with particular emphasis on ball movement, defensive rotations, and situational awareness. Budenholzer’s motion-heavy offense, combined with Hammon’s creative sets and Burke’s defensive schemes, creates a multifaceted system tailored to the strengths of Phoenix’s roster.
For Devin Booker, this coaching staff represents an opportunity to further cement his legacy as one of the game’s premier shooting guards. Under Budenholzer’s guidance, Booker could see his playmaking responsibilities expand, allowing him to thrive as both a scorer and facilitator. Meanwhile, Kevin Durant, now in the latter stages of his career, stands to benefit from Hammon’s ability to design plays that maximize his efficiency while minimizing wear and tear. The coaching staff’s collective experience in managing veteran stars will be instrumental in keeping Durant fresh for a deep playoff run.
The Suns’ younger players, such as Deandre Ayton and newly acquired talent, also stand to gain immensely from this revamped coaching approach. Ayton, in particular, could experience a resurgence under Burke’s tutelage, refining his defensive instincts and rim protection to match his offensive prowess. The emphasis on player development across the staff ensures that Phoenix’s role players will be put in positions to succeed, addressing past criticisms of over-reliance on iso-heavy scoring.
Beyond X’s and O’s, the Suns’ new coaching staff brings a championship mentality that could be the missing ingredient in their quest for a title. Budenholzer, Billups, and Hammon have all been part of winning cultures, whether as coaches or players, and their collective wisdom in navigating the pressures of postseason basketball will be invaluable. The presence of multiple voices with championship pedigrees fosters an environment where accountability and excellence are non-negotiable.
Of course, challenges remain. The Western Conference is as stacked as ever, with perennial contenders like the Denver Nuggets, Los Angeles Lakers, and up-and-coming threats like the Oklahoma City Thunder all vying for supremacy. The Suns will need their coaching staff to quickly establish cohesion and adapt to in-game adversities, something Budenholzer has historically excelled at. Additionally, managing egos and maintaining locker room harmony will be critical, given the high-profile nature of Phoenix’s roster.
Yet, if early indications are any sign, the Suns have struck gold with this coaching assemblage. The blend of tactical acumen, player development focus, and championship experience creates a foundation upon which Phoenix can build a sustainable contender. For a franchise that has endured decades of near-misses and heartbreaks, this coaching staff represents more than just a new direction—it’s a statement of intent.
As the 2025-26 season tips off, all eyes will be on Phoenix to see if this bold experiment pays off. With a roster capable of dominating on any given night and a coaching staff designed to elevate them to new heights, the Suns are no longer just hoping for a championship—they’re engineering one. The desert may soon witness the rise of a new dynasty, fueled by the brightest minds in the game and an unrelenting hunger for glory. The pieces are in place. The vision is clear. Now, it’s time to execute.
