The Phoenix Suns are bringing in longtime NBA coach Steve Clifford as a coaching consultant, sources told HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto on August 13, 2025.
Clifford owns 23 seasons of league experience. He twice guided the Charlotte Hornets and also led the Orlando Magic. His résumé includes assistant stops with the New York Knicks, Houston Rockets, Orlando Magic and Los Angeles Lakers.
First-year head coach Jordan Ott will work alongside Clifford. Ott was hired earlier this offseason after spending the 2024-25 campaign on the Cleveland Cavaliers staff under Kenny Atkinson.
Clifford had shifted into a front-office position with Charlotte before last season. His return to the bench coincides with a busy summer in Phoenix. The Suns traded Kevin Durant, bought out Bradley Beal, and acquired Jalen Green and Dillon Brooks to team with Devin Booker after missing the 2024-25 playoffs.
The Suns now turn to Ott, Clifford and the rest of the staff to navigate a revamped roster and push back into postseason contention.
Source: Hoops Wire
