Jordan Ott shared a revealing pre-draft memory of Devin Booker during his introductory press conference as the new head coach of the "Phoenix Suns" on Tuesday. The moment dates back to 2015 when Ott was working as a video coordinator for the Atlanta Hawks.
"I'll tell you a little story about Devin, 1-on-0 workout in a draft workout," Ott explained. "It was just coach, player, rebounder, and I can remember how he communicated and competed with himself in a 1-on-0 workout, and we left that workout knowing that he was different."
Ott steps into his first head coaching position during a period of significant transition for the organization, which has cycled through three coaches in as many years. He'll have the benefit of building around Booker, who has repeatedly expressed his desire to remain with the Suns for his entire career.
Interestingly, Booker was directly involved in the coaching search this time around, giving his stamp of approval for Ott's hiring. This collaboration signals a shift in how the franchise is approaching team-building decisions.
The new coach made it clear that maximizing Booker's prime years is a top priority. "We need to help him, and that's my job as a coach, to help him in multiple areas, help him find solutions so he knows that he has us behind him," Ott said. "Make or miss. End of game. Game on the line. Make or miss, we're buying him."
Ott faces significant roster questions beyond his star guard, particularly with rumors of a potential Kevin Durant trade looming. Despite these uncertainties, he emphasized the importance of building a strong relationship with Booker this summer.
Speaking on Arizona Sports' Burns and Gambo Show, Ott described connecting with Booker as an "extremely, extremely high priority" and outlined plans to "meet him where he is" and "listen to how he sees the game."
Can Ott provide the stability the "Suns" organization has lacked in recent years? With owner Mat Ishbia and general manager Brian Gregory also relatively new to their roles, the franchise is clearly banking on fresh perspectives to maximize what remains of their championship window.
