Brian Gregory welcomed his new official title of general manager for the Phoenix Suns. While he’s clearly up to the challenge, he ascribes some of his confidence to the deep relationships he’s developed in the organization. Gregory has a deep 25-year relationship with Suns owner Mat Ishbia. Armed with almost 20 years of experience as an NCAA Division I head coach, he will look to guide the program through a critical rebuilding period.
Gregory had been vice president of player programming in 2023. Having recently retired, his experience allows him to see into the Suns’ dynamics. He brings an extensive coaching background that includes stops at Dayton, Georgia Tech, and South Florida. During this time he developed a keen eye for player management and team strategy. His ascendance to general manager at 58 years of age represents a watershed moment both for the long-time consummate benchwarmer and his team.
Gregory’s first big challenge in this expanded role will be finding a new head coach to succeed Mike Budenholzer. He understands the gravity of this decision and, like any great leader, allows for and is committed to gathering the right people around him.
“My main focus, to be honest with you, is finding the right head coach for those guys.” – Brian Gregory
Gregory has been a rock star in his role as a position coach. He creates solid rapport with safe bet superstar Kevin Durant. Gregory emphasized the importance of these relationships in weathering the challenges of this past summer and what’s ahead.
“I have a very good relationship with both those guys,” – Brian Gregory
Gregory’s connection with Ishbia is a key part of his short-term strategy to advance with. He credits their decades-deep personal friendship for giving him leeway and latitude to deeply operate team process and dynamics.
“I’m never going to shy away from the fact that one of the reasons I’m sitting up here is because of my relationship with Mat Ishbia,” – Brian Gregory
This summer is shaping up with one-of-a-kind opportunities for the Suns, especially with Kevin Durant being their most valuable trade asset. Gregory’s capacity to tap into these relationships will be crucial as he looks to thread the needle on possible trades and acquisitions.
A few nights ago, Gregory shared dinner with Wizards star Brad Beal, talking about their plans for summer workouts, building the team’s culture and more. This interaction illustrates his proactive approach to maintaining player relations and fostering open communication within the organization.
“Kevin gave me a nice hug in the weight room the other night when the news came across Twitter. Had a great dinner with Brad Beal last Thursday and we talked a little about summer plans and different things like that.” – Brian Gregory
To deepen his bench on the leadership team, Gregory has promoted Oronde Taliaferro to assistant general manager. Further, Paul Rivers will assume greater basketball operations duties under his supervision. These appointments show intention to build a conducive environment as Gregory goes on his mission to reshape the Suns.
The Suns are entering the most important chapter of their history. Under Gregory’s guidance, they are intent on creating a deep and talented roster to compete at the highest levels of the NBA. His deep understanding of the game, its players, and the culture we live in today puts him in a great position to tackle the challenges moving forward.
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