📍 Phoenix, AZ — April 17, 2025
Phoenix Suns owner Mat Ishbia did not hold back when assessing the franchise’s disappointing 2024-25 season. Speaking at a press conference Thursday, Ishbia described the campaign as “embarrassing,” admitting that the team he helped assemble lacked identity, effort, and pride.
“Embarrassing season, right? Disappointing. Awful,” Ishbia said. “I watch every game like all you guys do, and no one’s proud of it. It was a failure.”
Despite a star-studded roster featuring Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal, the Suns finished 36-46 and missed the playoffs, leaving major questions about the future.
Lack of Identity and Effort
Ishbia’s biggest concern extended beyond the record. He criticized the Suns’ inconsistency, lack of grit, and defensive struggles, particularly against top-tier opponents.
“I want to put a team out there that everyone is proud of,” Ishbia said. “It has to have an identity — similar to Phoenix. Some grit, some determination, some work ethic, some grind, some joy. We just have not had that.”
Immediate Changes Begin
The first major domino fell quickly as head coach Mike Budenholzer was fired hours after the season-ending loss to the Sacramento Kings. Ishbia suggested that more sweeping roster and cultural changes are coming as the Suns seek to reshape the organization.
Drawing on his background as a former walk-on at Michigan State under Tom Izzo, Ishbia emphasized hard work over pure talent.
“I’m no talent, all heart, that’s my life,” he said. “I will just outwork everyone. I’m going to have a coach, a front office, and players that the Phoenix community will love.”
CEO Josh Bartelstein and general manager James Jones were present at the press conference, indicating they remain part of the team’s leadership structure for now.
Devin Booker’s Status and the Road Ahead
One certainty Ishbia made clear: Devin Booker is staying.
“He’s the franchise player,” Ishbia stated. “He’s done amazing things. His mission and my mission are very similar — let’s bring a championship to Phoenix.”
However, the futures of Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal remain less secure. Durant, still highly productive at 36, could command strong interest in the trade market. Beal’s hefty contract and declining production could complicate any potential moves.
Before addressing the roster, Ishbia acknowledged the urgency of finding the right head coach — their fourth in as many seasons.
“We’ve got to get the next hire right,” Ishbia said. “And we will.”
As the Suns enter an offseason full of uncertainty and opportunity, Ishbia’s message was clear: complacency will not be tolerated.
