Initial reports did not include his name, but he is in fact still a finalist.
The Phoenix Suns’ head coaching search remains open, but not for long.
According to reports earlier today, the team has narrowed its candidate pool to eight names and will begin conducting interviews throughout the week. The goal? Whittle that group down to a final three.
Sources: On Haynes Briefs, reporting on the Phoenix Suns narrowing the coaching search to the Elite 8 of candidates. Identifying the candidates and what the franchise is looking for. #haynesbriefs https://t.co/qAoZ2HFRqA
— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) May 18, 2025
One name notably absent from the initial reports was Miami Heat assistant Chris Quinn, a candidate I believe would be a strong hire, even in a challenging cycle like this one.
With the coaching market relatively bare and the Suns aiming to pair a first-time head coach with a first-time general manager, the margin for error is razor-thin. But if you’re looking for someone who understands what a winning environment looks like, who has helped nurture a culture of accountability and consistency, Quinn checks those boxes.
Despite the initial omission, both Jake Fischer and John Gambadoro have since confirmed that Quinn is indeed among the finalists.
Yes Chris Quinn has advanced to second phase of interviews. Lot of good options for Phoenix – probably a week away from getting to 3 finalists. https://t.co/wEoM4sYnV5
— John Gambadoro (@Gambo987) May 18, 2025
That’s significant. Because this isn’t just about filling a vacancy. It’s about resetting the tone of a franchise that has cycled through three head coaches in the last three seasons.
Stability isn’t something you find. It’s something you build. And the Suns know that. At least we hope they do. That’s why they’re being methodical with this hire. They need someone who can not only connect with players in the present, but also shape a sustainable future.
This next coach won’t just inherit the job. He’ll inherit the responsibility of righting the ship, defining the vision, and finally installing a culture that lasts. We hope.
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