In a surprising move, Phoenix Suns owner Mat Ishbia has turned to longtime friend and former NCAA Division I head coach Brian Gregory to lead the team's rebuild as the new general manager. Gregory's deep connection with Ishbia, dating back to their time at Michigan State, underscores the trust and shared values that underpin this uncommon transition from college hoops to the NBA. With the Suns facing a crucial offseason after a disappointing season, Gregory's first task will be to hire a new head coach and reshape a roster that underperformed despite its star power led by Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal.
Gregory's arrival marks a significant shake-up for the Suns, with former GM James Jones transitioning to a senior advisory role. The franchise's history of near misses in the NBA Finals belies its quest for a first championship, and Ishbia's vision for a team defined by grit and determination sets the stage for Gregory to make impactful roster moves. With Durant potentially on the trading block and Beal's uncertain future, Gregory's leadership will be tested as he navigates the challenges of reshaping the Suns into a competitive force in the Western Conference. As the Suns seek their next chapter of success, the Ishbia-Gregory partnership aims to bring a winning formula to the desert and recapture the magic of past glory years at Michigan State.