Slowly but steadily, the Phoenix Suns are piecing together Jordan Ott’s first coaching staff. The 40-year-old rookie head coach has already surrounded himself with trusted minds, although not extremely experienced, with the additions of assistant Jesse Mermuys and player-development specialist Mateen Cleaves, a longtime ally of owner Mat Ishbia.
On Saturday, another name joined the fold, one that might make you pause.
Yes, that Mike Muscala. The 6’10” big man who, until recently, was still lacing them up in the NBA. His 11-year career stretched across multiple teams, ending most recently with the Oklahoma City Thunder in the 2023-24 season. Over 548 games, Muscala quietly built a reputation as a steady, cerebral presence, averaging 5.9 points and 3.1 rebounds. He turned 34 only days ago. Now, instead of suiting up, he’ll be holding a clipboard.
So how? Why? Well, as with all stories, there is a “once upon a time..”
Ott began his NBA journey in 2013 as a video coordinator for the Atlanta Hawks, the same season Muscala arrived via a draft-day trade from Dallas. The 44th overall pick in the 2013 NBA Draft must have made a connection with Ott that has lasted and left a strong enough impression that has opened this door.
In Phoenix, Muscala won’t just be a former player on the bench. He’ll be a bridge between a new head coach’s vision, a franchise in transition, and the hard-earned wisdom that only comes from years in the grind. The team has three centers in Mark Williams, Nick Richards, and rookie Khaman Maluach, whom Muscala can provide advice to, seeing as he played the same position. Perhaps his voice will assist in the tactical deployment of these big men.
Regardless of the how or the why, the what is simple. Like much of the Suns’ front office, Muscala will cut his teeth in Phoenix, earning his stripes one step at a time.
Listen to the latest podcast episode of the Suns JAM Session Podcast below.
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