Suns Owner Responds to Criticism After Reset

Phoenix Suns owner Mat Ishbia publicly accepted responsibility for the team's disappointing 36-46 season, labeling it embarrassing and expressing frustration over the lack of passion, identity, and defensive effort from a roster featuring Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal. After the Suns missed the playoffs, Ishbia fired head coach Mike Budenholzer, marking the third coaching change under his ownership in less than two years. Ishbia signaled further sweeping changes, including a focus on building around Devin Booker and potentially trading Kevin Durant to acquire rebuilding assets. The franchise faced additional controversy when ESPN's Stephen A. Smith compared Ishbia to former Clippers owner Donald Sterling, though Smith later apologized and clarified he was only criticizing basketball decisions. Ishbia dismissed most of Smith's criticism as sensationalism but acknowledged the disrespect in the Sterling comparison. As the Suns look to reset, Ishbia emphasized the necessity of restoring pride and identity to the team.