Jordan Ott revealed a personal memory of Devin Booker during his introductory press conference as the new head coach of the "Phoenix Suns" on Tuesday. The memory dates back to 2015 when Ott was working as a video coordinator with the Atlanta Hawks.
"I'll tell you a little story about Devin, 1-on-0 workout in a draft workout," – Ott said. "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 takes over the "Suns" in what appears to be a period of significant transition. The franchise has gone through three coaches in the past three years, but one constant remains – their star guard Booker, who reportedly was involved in the coaching search this time around.
Interestingly, despite changes swirling around the organization, both owner Mat Ishbia and Booker himself have repeatedly assured that the All-Star guard intends to remain in Phoenix, ideally for his entire career.
The new coach clearly understands the importance of maximizing Booker's prime years and building a strong connection with his franchise player.
"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 explained. "Make or miss. End of game. Game on the line. Make or miss, we're buying him."
By the way, Ott faces significant challenges in his first head coaching position, particularly with questions surrounding the roster and rumors of a potential Kevin Durant trade looming.
Speaking on Arizona Sports' Burns and Gambo Show, Ott emphasized the importance of collaborating with Booker: "Extremely, extremely high priority to connect, spend time, to meet him where he is, to listen to how he sees the game, who he is as a man."
Can Ott bring stability to a franchise that has struggled to find consistency in its coaching position? With Booker – the "Suns" all-time leading scorer – now in his prime, the timing couldn't be more critical for this new partnership to succeed.
