David Fizdale, James Borrego, and Micah Nori are among candidates to become the next head coach of the Phoenix Suns.
As teams around the NBA begin preparations for the 2025-26 season, the Phoenix Suns stand alone as the only franchise without a head coach. After a deeply disappointing campaign that saw them miss the postseason entirely, the Suns parted ways with head coach Mike Budenholzer after just one year at the helm.
3-pointers this season
Phoenix Suns
NBA
Now, the organization is already deep into the hiring process, reportedly narrowing its search to a list of eight potential candidates, all of whom served as assistant coaches during the 2024-25 season.
According to NBA insider Chris Haynes, the Suns are focused on up-and-coming coaches with fresh perspectives and strong defensive acumen. The shortlist includes:
Sean Sweeney (Dallas Mavericks assistant)
David Fizdale (Phoenix Suns assistant)
James Borrego (New Orleans Pelicans assistant)
Johnny Bryant (Cleveland Cavaliers assistant)
Jordan Ott (Cleveland Cavaliers assistant)
Steve Hetzel (Brooklyn Nets assistant)
Micah Nori (Minnesota Timberwolves assistant)
Dave Bliss (Oklahoma City Thunder assistant)
The oldest candidates on the list are Micah Nori (51) and David Fizdale (50), while the others are mostly in their late 30s to early 40s. This suggests the Suns are aiming for a younger, more dynamic coach who can connect with the team’s core players and grow alongside the franchise.
Haynes also reported that the Suns are prioritizing candidates whose coaching philosophies align with the front office’s long-term vision, placing a strong emphasis on establishment of a new defensive culture in Phoenix.
Also, check out our list of the 11 best available NBA coaches in 2025:
11 Best Available NBA coaches in 2025
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