The Phoenix Suns will introduce Jordan Ott, their 23rd head coach in franchise history, with a 3 p.m. MST press conference Tuesday.
Burns & Gambo will take the beginning of the press conference live.
Ott’s introduction will formally put him in front of the microphone for his first head-coaching job. He spent the past year as an assistant with the Cleveland Cavaliers under head coach Kenny Atkinson and has led multiple Summer League teams.
The hire is the first big addition under new Phoenix general manager Brian Gregory, whose next steps will likely include considering how to reshape the roster and if star Kevin Durant will be part of that going forward.
Ott will likely face questions about his history and shared connections to Michigan State, where he served as video coordinator under coach Tom Izzo from 2008-12.
Suns owner Mat Ishbia was a walk-on for MSU from 1999-2002, while Gregory had two stints as an assistant coach for the Spartans from 1990-96 and 1999-2003.
“After an extensive head coach search, Jordan’s leadership and basketball intellect consistently stood out, combining a brilliant mind as an offensive strategist with the blueprint to employ an aggressive defensive system,” Gregory said in a release.
“A strong communicator with a relentless work ethic, he shares our vision of establishing a team identity rooted in toughness, accountability and a systematic approach to the game. Jordan attacks every day with the grit and competitiveness we need in a leader of our culture, and we are excited to welcome him and his family to Phoenix.”
Cavs associate head coach Johnnie Bryant and Ott were reportedly the two finalists for Phoenix’s opening.