Few outside of East Lansing may realize just how deeply Mat Ishbia’s Michigan State roots influence his approach to rebuilding the Phoenix Suns.
Despite graduating over two decades ago, Ishbia sees the Spartan head as a badge of honor. He consistently donates funds to Michigan State athletics, and was even the keynote speaker at MSU’s class of 2025 spring commencement.
As the Suns entertain offers to part ways with Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal, the future of the franchise hinges upon Ishbia’s faith in those deep-rooted ties to the green and white.
Since purchasing the Phoenix Suns and Mercury in early 2023, the former Spartan walk-on and national champion has wasted no time stamping his identity on the franchise. His goal is clear: to instill the same culture that has defined Tom Izzo’s legendary tenure with Spartan basketball.
The same culture and affinity for discipline he knows better than most.
Within months of taking over, the United Wholesale Mortgage CEO brought in fellow Michigan native and MSU graduate Josh Bartelstein to serve as CEO of the Suns and Mercury. When filling out key roles within the front office, Ishbia likes to trust people who share Michigan roots while understanding Izzo’s decades-long philosophy.
The same can be said for his most recent GM and head coach hires.
New general manager and longtime college coach Brian Gregory was an assistant coach under Izzo when Ishbia was playing for MSU. And new head coach Jordan Ott? He began his coaching career as a student videographer at Michigan State before rapidly ascending through the NBA coaching ranks.
After “splash” hires with Mike Budenholzer and Frank Vogel, the 45-year-old was searching for his third coach in as many seasons, this time hoping familiarity would help carry out his vision.
Both Gregory and Ott are known for their work ethic and player-first mentality, hallmarks of Izzo’s program and what Ishbia clearly seems to value above all. Fans may not be happy with his approach, but he seems to be all in on emulating what has worked in East Lansing and translating it to the professional level.
Now, with Phoenix staring down a roster overhaul and the end of an ambitious but underwhelming era, Ishbia is betting that the values forged on the banks of the Red Cedar can bring new life to a franchise still searching for its identity.