The season is a “failure,” according to Suns owner Mat Ishbia

The Phoenix Suns concluded the season with a record 10 games under .500, failing to secure a spot in the postseason, even with probable Hall of Famer Kevin Durant on their roster.

The owner of the Suns, Mat Ishbia, was also dissatisfied with his perspective. He observed a team devoid of passion and missing a clear identity.

“This season has been quite embarrassing, hasn’t it?” Ishbia remarked to reporters on Thursday.

Unfortunate. Terrible. I observe each game just like everyone else, and there’s a shared sense of disappointment. No one feels proud or satisfied—this sentiment extends from myself to the front office, coaches, players, marketing executives, and even the security staff. It was an unsuccessful attempt.

Ishbia accurately characterized the Phoenix season as a failure.

The Suns surged to an impressive 8-1 start, appearing poised to vie for a playoff position in the Western Conference. However, when a play-in spot was within reach, Phoenix faltered, suffering defeats in nine of their last 10 games, culminating in a disappointing season.

Ishbia observed a lack of determination in the final moments.

“I aim to assemble a team on the court that instills pride in everyone,” Ishbia stated. “It must possess an identity — one akin to Phoenix.” A blend of resilience, resolve, diligence, effort, and happiness. We simply haven’t experienced that.

The Suns parted ways with Mike Budenholzer following the season, marking the franchise’s fourth head coach in as many years.

“It’s essential that we make the right choice for our next hire,” stated Ishbia, who is 45 years old. “We shall.”

Durant is anticipated to be traded as Phoenix seeks to obtain assets for their rebuilding efforts. Next season, he will turn 37, yet he demonstrated that he still has a lot to offer by averaging 26.6 points over 62 games this season.

The Suns are set to construct their team around star Devin Booker, who, at just 28, has already completed 10 seasons in the NBA. This season, he averaged 25.6 points and established himself as the franchise’s all-time leading scorer with a total of 16,452 career points.

“He is the cornerstone of the franchise, and his accomplishments have been remarkable,” Ishbia stated. “I have a conversation with him, and we share a strong alignment in our goals.” Our missions align closely — let’s work together to bring a championship to Phoenix.

Booker has consistently conveyed his desire to spend his entire career with the Suns.

Phoenix is interested in trading Bradley Beal but could not accomplish this at the trade deadline because of a no-trade clause in Beal’s contract, which pays him over $50 million each season. The Suns will undoubtedly inquire once more if Beal is willing to waive the clause.