TOUCHDOWN: Phoenix Suns Head Coach Jordan Ott Has Officially Announced &Dropping His Coaching Career Claiming it is Affecting His… 

Phoenix Suns Head Coach Jordan Ott Has Officially Announced &Dropping His Coaching Career Claiming it is Affecting His…

In a deeply personal and unexpected announcement, Phoenix Suns head coach Jordan Ott has officially stepped down from his position and revealed that he is leaving coaching altogether. The 40-year-old, who had only recently taken the reins of the Suns, shared that the mental, emotional, and physical demands of the job have significantly affected his personal well-being.

“It’s not just a career choice anymore,” Ott said during a solemn press conference held at the Footprint Center in downtown Phoenix. “It’s been affecting my sleep, my relationships, and most of all — my peace of mind. I came into this job believing I could handle it all, but it’s become clear that I need to prioritize my health and my family.”

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A Promising Start Cut Short

Jordan Ott’s coaching career was considered one of the most promising among young minds in the NBA. Known for his sharp analytics approach and player-first mentality, Ott had climbed the coaching ladder quickly, earning respect from veterans and players alike.

He was officially hired as head coach of the Phoenix Suns just a few months ago after several seasons as an assistant with high-profile teams. His hiring was met with enthusiasm, seen as a fresh chapter for a franchise eager to return to contention in the competitive Western Conference.

Despite the early optimism, Ott’s time with the Suns never had the chance to fully take off. Now, his sudden departure has left many within the organization — and around the league — stunned.

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“I Had to Choose Myself”

In an emotionally raw address, Ott explained the toll the job had taken behind the scenes.

“I realized I was waking up every day feeling more anxiety than inspiration,” he said. “It stopped being about building something and started feeling like I was tearing myself apart trying to meet every expectation.”

He cited long days, pressure from both media and fans, and an inability to truly disconnect from the job — even when he was at home with his family.

“My daughter asked me last week why I’m always on my phone when we eat,” he recalled, voice cracking. “That hit me harder than any loss I’ve ever taken on the court.”

Ott clarified that his decision was not due to any conflict within the Suns organization and praised the front office and ownership for their support. “They believed in me. They still do. But I couldn’t keep pretending I was OK when I wasn’t.”

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An Outpouring of Support

While the announcement came as a shock, many in the basketball world have expressed support for Ott’s decision.

“Stepping down for your health and your family takes more courage than people realize,” said one fellow coach anonymously. “The job doesn’t just ask for your time — it takes your whole life if you let it.”

Several Suns players have also issued statements backing their former coach, emphasizing his leadership and honesty. One player reportedly said Ott “always put the human being first — even in the business of winning.”

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What’s Next for the Suns?

The Phoenix Suns now face the urgent task of finding a new head coach less than four months before the 2025–26 season begins. While an interim solution is expected to be announced within the week, team executives have made it clear they want to take their time finding the right long-term fit.

In a brief statement, Suns General Manager Brian Keller said, “Jordan Ott will always be part of the Suns family. We admire his strength in making this decision. As an organization, we’re focused on moving forward with purpose and stability.”

Reports suggest the team may promote from within or revisit candidates who were previously in the running before Ott’s hiring.

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A Personal Decision in a Demanding Profession

Ott’s resignation reignites the conversation around the mental health of coaches in professional sports. While player wellness has gained significant traction in recent years, the pressures placed on coaches — especially first-time head coaches — are often overlooked.

“I’m not walking away from the game,” Ott said in closing. “I’m stepping toward a healthier version of myself. Basketball has given me so much, but right now, I need to give something back to my family — and to myself.”

As he left the podium, there were no questions — just a long, respectful silence from the room.

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Jordan Ott’s exit marks the end of a coaching chapter, but perhaps the beginning of a new conversation about balance, well-being, and the human side of professional sports.