IT IS DONE: Phoenix Suns Has Officially Promoted Brian Gregory from vice president to be the franchise’s new general manager as James Jones transitions to a role as senior… 

Phoenix Suns Has Officially Promoted Brian Gregory from vice president to be the franchise’s new general manager as James Jones transitions to a role as senior…

In a notable front-office shakeup, the Phoenix Suns have officially promoted Brian Gregory to the position of general manager, the team announced on Thursday. The move comes as longtime executive James Jones transitions into a newly defined senior leadership role within the organization.

Gregory, who previously served as the Suns’ Vice President of Basketball Strategy and Evaluation, will now step into a more hands-on position, taking over daily basketball operations, roster management, and long-term planning. The promotion marks a significant step in the 57-year-old’s professional journey, transitioning from his roots in college basketball to the front-office ranks of the NBA.

From College Coach to NBA Executive

Brian Gregory’s name might be familiar to college basketball fans. Before joining the Suns’ front office, he served as head coach at several major programs, including Dayton, Georgia Tech, and most recently South Florida. Known for his strong leadership and player development, Gregory made a seamless shift into the executive world in 2023 when he joined Phoenix’s front office as a strategic advisor.

Within just a year, Gregory impressed ownership and leadership with his analytical approach, attention to detail, and basketball acumen.

“Brian has a deep understanding of the game, a team-first mindset, and a commitment to excellence that aligns with everything we’re building here,” Suns owner Mat Ishbia said in a statement. “This promotion reflects the trust we have in him to help guide the future of this franchise.”

James Jones Moves Into Strategic Senior Role

James Jones, who has served as the Suns’ general manager since 2019 and was later promoted to President of Basketball Operations, will remain with the team in a senior executive capacity. According to the organization, Jones will now focus on long-term strategic planning, high-level personnel decisions, and advising ownership on both basketball and business matters.

Under Jones’ leadership, the Suns made dramatic strides, highlighted by their 2021 run to the NBA Finals and the blockbuster acquisition of Kevin Durant in 2023. Known for his poise, player relationships, and roster-building savvy, Jones is widely credited with helping turn the franchise from a lottery regular into a perennial playoff contender.

“James has been a tremendous leader for this organization and will continue to play a vital role in shaping our championship aspirations,” Ishbia added. “His experience and vision remain invaluable to our team.”

A New Chapter for Phoenix Basketball

This leadership shift signals a potential new era for the Suns as they seek to maximize a championship window with stars like Devin Booker, Kevin Durant, and Bradley Beal. After a disappointing early playoff exit in 2024, the franchise is clearly recalibrating its approach both on the court and in the front office.

Gregory’s promotion reflects a modern NBA trend: bringing in executives with deep basketball backgrounds who understand both analytics and team culture. His previous coaching experience may prove especially valuable in managing relationships with players, coaches, and agents — all while navigating the league’s complex salary cap and collective bargaining rules.

In his first official comments as GM, Gregory expressed gratitude and excitement for the opportunity.

“I’m honored and humbled to take on this role,” he said. “The Suns are an incredible organization with passionate fans, a winning culture, and a clear vision. I’m ready to get to work and help us reach the ultimate goal — bringing a championship to Phoenix.”

Immediate Tasks Ahead

With free agency winding down and training camp just a few months away, Gregory will have a full plate. One of his first major tasks will be assessing the team’s depth, especially in the frontcourt, and identifying potential veteran additions to round out the roster. He’ll also be working closely with head coach Mike Budenholzer, who was hired earlier this offseason, to ensure alignment between the front office and coaching staff.

“There’s a strong sense of urgency here,” one team insider noted. “With this roster and these expectations, the time to win is now — and everyone in the building knows that.”

Building Stability for the Future

While the Suns are firmly in win-now mode, the organization is also laying the groundwork for sustainable success beyond the current core. Gregory’s promotion and Jones’ shift to a broader role suggest a structure built for both immediate results and long-term stability.

The duo is expected to work closely together, with Gregory handling day-to-day basketball operations and Jones serving as a strategic overseer and liaison to ownership.

“We’re aligned in our vision,” Gregory said. “James and I share a belief in building a culture of accountability, hard work, and purpose. That’s what this next chapter is about.”

As the Suns gear up for what promises to be a pivotal season, the front office transition represents both a nod to past success and a bold step forward — with Brian Gregory now at the helm, ready to steer the franchise into its next phase.