IT’S NOW OFFICIAL: The Phoenix Suns have hired Willie Green as their new head coach!

IT’S NOW OFFICIAL: The Phoenix Suns Have Hired Willie Green as Their New Head Coach!

 

The Phoenix Suns have made a decisive move in their coaching search, officially naming Willie Green as their new head coach

. The announcement ends weeks of speculation following the firing of Mike Budenholzer after a disappointing 2024–25 season. Green, who most recently served as the head coach of the New Orleans Pelicans, now takes on a major challenge in Arizona: reviving a Suns franchise that has fallen short of expectations despite a star-studded roster.

 

Willie Green’s arrival brings a fresh perspective and renewed optimism for the Suns and their fanbase. Known for his calm demeanor, player-first coaching style, and defensive-minded approach, Green earned respect around the league for his ability to connect with young players and veterans alike. During his tenure with the Pelicans, he led the team to multiple playoff appearances and was credited with creating a strong team culture centered around accountability and unity.

 

The Suns, who finished 11th in the Western Conference with a 36–46 record, failed to reach the playoffs despite having elite talent like Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal. The underwhelming performance led to increased scrutiny of coaching and front-office decisions, with team owner Mat Ishbia calling the season a “failure.” Hiring Willie Green represents a shift in philosophy. He’s known for fostering a team-oriented atmosphere rather than relying solely on star power.

 

Green inherits a roster full of potential but also one that requires direction. Chemistry issues, inconsistent effort on defense, and injuries plagued the team throughout the 2024–25 season. With Green’s emphasis on fundamentals, discipline, and communication, the hope is that he can unite the Suns and bring structure to a team that has the pieces but lacked coherence.

 

This move is also significant because it marks a return of sorts for Green to familiar territory. As a former player, Green spent part of his NBA career with the Suns during the 2010–11 season. That connection to the franchise could help him quickly gain trust from players, staff, and fans. It’s a homecoming with a purpose—resurrecting a franchise that just a few seasons ago made a trip to the NBA Finals.

 

Green’s track record shows promise. In New Orleans, he guided the Pelicans through injuries and adversity while developing young stars like Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram. His ability to balance development with competitiveness will be vital in Phoenix, where expectations are high and patience is limited.

 

The front office’s decision to go with Green over other candidates, such as David Fizdale, Mike Brown, and even former Suns coach Steve Nash, signals a commitment to long-term stability. Green is not a flashy hire, but he is widely respected and considered a players’ coach—a leader who can build trust in the locker room and bring the best out of his roster.

 

As the Suns look ahead to the 2025–26 season, the focus will be on creating an identity. Under Green, expect a renewed commitment to defense, better ball movement, and more defined roles for key players. He’ll also be tasked with managing the workload of aging stars while integrating young talent, which may include off-season additions or internal development.

 

While the road ahead won’t be easy, the Suns have made a clear statement with this hire. They believe in Willie Green’s vision, leadership, and ability to guide a team back to contention. With a new voice in the locker room and a fresh start on the horizon, fans in Phoenix have reason to be excited again. The Willie Green era has officially begun.