Phoenix Suns add Steve Clifford to their staff as an advisor, tapping a seasoned NBA mind to bolster a young, upside driven group. Clifford brings 23 seasons of coaching experience and a track record of defensive organization that should help a young core grow with discipline and structure. The Suns’ newly announced on bench features head coach Jordan Ott and assistants Jesse Mermuys, DeMarre Carroll, Brian Randle, Chaisson Allen, John Little, Mike Muscala, and Sean Dwyer, plus Mateen Cleaves in a player development leadership role. Clifford’s history includes head coaching stints with the Hornets and Magic, and his Brooklyn connection with Ott hints at a collaborative, cross runway approach as he helps guide a roster now including Mark Williams and Nick Richards. The Suns also push development via the Suns JAM Session Podcast, signaling a broader commitment to integrating youth with veteran guidance each step of the way.

The move signals a shift toward defense and professional growth as Phoenix builds around a talented but inexperienced core. Clifford’s presence could translate into steadier rotations, better rim protection, and a clearer path for Williams and Richards to develop alongside the team’s young wings. Cleaves joining development efforts complements this by embedding leadership for players chasing a bigger role. In short, Phoenix is creating a bridge between tomorrow and today, aiming to accelerate growth while preserving competitive intent across a pivotal season.