The future of James Jones as lead basketball executive of the Phoenix Suns is unclear as they enter the offseason. Jones’ contract expires at the end of June and Mat Ishbia is widely expected to consider new candidates for the role.
Jones has worked in the Suns’ front office since 2017 and assumed lead duties in 2019 to replace Ryan McDonough. The Suns reached The Finals in 2021 and had a successful regular season in 21-22 before a second round exit to the Dallas Mavericks.
Sources tell The Athletic that Ishbia and CEO Josh Bartelstein took more prominent roles in trade negotiations and team operations during the 24-25 season. Bartelstein’s role with the Suns moving forward is yet to be determined.
The Suns missed out on the Play-In Tournament altogether with a 36-46 record against $214 million in salaries and $152 million in luxury tax payments.