Phoenix Suns owner Mat Ishbia guarantees a playoff return and series win after a tough postseason sweep by the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Phoenix Suns owner Mat Ishbia expressed strong confidence in his roster during a recent media appearance, vowing that the franchise will bounce back from a disappointing postseason. Speaking on CNBC Sport, Ishbia addressed the team's trajectory following a difficult stretch, according to information published by bleache.
The Western Conference franchise has struggled to find postseason success recently, missing the playoffs entirely in 2025 and suffering sweeps in consecutive years. Despite these setbacks, the organization remains committed to a win-now strategy under the leadership of team executives.
To achieve these ambitious goals, the front office has overhauled the roster through strategic trades and the NBA draft. The team hopes these adjustments will pay off immediately as the regular season approaches next Wednesday against the Portland Trail Blazers.
Mat Ishbia on Phoenix Suns Playoff Aspirations
During his appearance on CNBC's Alex Sherman show, Mat Ishbia outlined clear expectations for the upcoming campaign. He stated that the franchise is moving in the right direction, emphasizing that the team is an ascending young group getting better every single day.
The owner specifically predicted that the Phoenix squad will secure a postseason berth and advance past the first round. This bold declaration comes after consecutive playoff sweeps by the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2024 and the Oklahoma City Thunder last spring.
Roster Changes and Luxury Tax Status
The franchise made aggressive moves this summer, sending out an unprotected first-round pick to acquire Miles Bridges from the Charlotte Hornets. Phoenix now lacks a completely free first-round selection until 2032 due to previous asset trades.
Additionally, the front office added Luke Kennard and Mark Williams while drafting Koa Peat, parting ways with Grayson Allen and Royce O'Neale. These transactions place the Suns with the third-highest payroll in the league, pushing the organization over the first luxury tax apron, per Spotrac data.
Financial Investment in Devin Booker and Co
The franchise has a history of heavy spending under current ownership, having paid a massive 152 million dollar tax bill for the 2025 season before dipping below the limit briefly. Financial commitments remain exceptionally high as management builds around core stars like Devin Booker, Jalen Green, and Dillon Brooks.
Fans and analysts will monitor how this expensive roster performs when the regular season tips off against the Portland Trail Blazers. The heavy investments in salary and future draft capital mean expectations are at an all-time high for the organization.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Mat Ishbia say about the Phoenix Suns?
Phoenix Suns owner Mat Ishbia predicted that his team will make the NBA playoffs and win a first-round series, stating they are an ascending young group.
Who swept the Phoenix Suns in the 2025 postseason?
The Phoenix Suns were swept by the Oklahoma City Thunder in the postseason, following a previous sweep by the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2024.
What major roster moves did the Suns make in the offseason?
The Suns acquired Miles Bridges from the Charlotte Hornets, added Luke Kennard and Mark Williams, and drafted Koa Peat while trading away Grayson Allen and Royce O'Neale.
When does the Phoenix Suns regular season start?
The Phoenix Suns begin their regular season next Wednesday with a matchup against the Portland Trail Blazers.
