Suns Owner Mat Ishbia Reflects on Massive Changes Made
Phoenix Suns owner Mat Ishbia leads the largest mortgage company in the world, but don't let that fool you: He's competitive.
Ishbia himself played basketball at Michigan State and won a national title under Tom Izzo. Though he wasn't exactly a featured player, the drive and discipline instilled in him through competing at a high level has stuck.
Ishbia took over near the NBA's trade deadline and immediately got to work, landing Kevin Durant in arguably the biggest trade in franchise history.
More changes were made after the Suns again fell short in the postseason, this time on the coaching staff with the dismissal of Monty Williams.
Another splash move in acquiring Bradley Beal from the Washington Wizards was made, along with a strong free agency class that has completely overhauled Phoenix's roster.
In an interview with the Arizona Republic's Duane Rankin, Ishbia said changes were necessary:
“The reality is we didn’t finish where we wanted to be and we’re not going to win a championship every year. I said that at the beginning. It’s not going to happen," said Ishbia.
"However, there are a lot of things we can do better and put ourselves in a better position to win a championship and that’s the goal. That’s what everybody is going to grade everybody on. Do we have a competitive, fun team, are we dominating the fan experience, doing great in the community? Do we have a great culture with the Suns and Mercury and are we winning?"
There's been plenty of talk on the massive roster changes, though it will be interesting to see how Frank Vogel is able to manage expectations.
“Monty Williams was a great coach and great part of the Phoenix Suns organization for years. At the same time, it was time for a change and Frank Vogel was the obvious choice," Ishbia said.
"We went through a very grueling interview process with many candidates. Frank Vogel emerged as the obvious choice in every aspect. From culture building to winning a championship, past credentials to defensive mindset along with team building.
"Being able to coach superstars, which we have three now in Devin Booker, Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal. He checked every single box. He was the obvious choice. He’s been even better than I expected since we’ve hired him. The collaboration, the communication, what the players feel about him. It’s been phenomenal and I’m super excited about it.”
