Suns owner Matt Ishby gets vocal support from Kevin Durant amid struggles

Championship teams are not created overnight, and Phoenix Suns the owner Matt Ishbia knows that as well as anyone. also, Kevin Durant has a deep understanding of it. However, the two share different journeys to their respective championships. For starters, Ishbia was part of the Michigan State Spartans’ 2000 national championship victory.

In contrast, Durant has two NBA championships with the Golden State Warriors. He also beat both Finals MVP awards teamed with Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson and Draymond Green. His game was at the highest level. Both understand the process of getting to the top.

When Ishbia became the new owner, he sparked a different culture than we saw under Robert Sarver. The constant positivity and yet insanely competitive nature was a refreshing sight. One of the first moves under Ishbia’s leadership was, to say the least, a generational move.

The The Suns included Durant in an emergency trade. Acquiring a generational superstar in half a season is unheard of, but still like Durant. Even though Phoenix hasn’t won a title since becoming MVP, the determination is there. Durant spoke at Friday’s practice about Ishbia’s vision and the respect he has for the Suns owner, via AZCentral’s Duane Rankin.

“Sometimes you have to try to see to try to figure out where you want to go,” Durant said. “Sometimes it can always turn out the way you set it up or the way you envision it.” It is better to try than to do nothing.”

“I appreciate people who want to work hard to reach the championship level along the way. it’s hard. As we’ve seen, it’s hard, but just put yourself in a position to try to do something. A lot of people don’t even try to do things here to be great.”

Kevin Durant looks at Matt Ishbia’s work for the Suns

Durant was the only move Ishbia made since taking over as owner. He got one of the best shooting guards in the league. The The Suns traded for Bradley Beal in the 2023 offseason. Although Chris Paul was on the receiving end of the trade, it gave Phoenix another legitimate Big 3.

Furthermore, Monty Williams was fired and the franchise brought in Frank Vogel. The following season saw a fall and defeat. Despite 49 wins, they were swept away by the Minnesota Timberwolves in the first round. Soon after, Vogel was fired and a new head coaching search began.

Then they hired Holbrook, Arizona native Mike Budenholzer. His coaching philosophy fits the offensive dynamic of the team. Once again, it has been a shaky season so far in the Valley of the Sun. A 17-19 record does not sit well with the team and its fan base. After a 9-2 start, it was almost a downward spiral.

Injuries plagued the roster, and it was a forced loss in camaraderie. They took drastic measures and were desperate for any positive change. As a result, The Suns also benched Beal and Jusuf Nurkictwo of their starters. They’re 2-1 since then, but it hasn’t gone unnoticed.

Much of the discourse was about that aforementioned bench. Plus, it adds fuel to the fire about a possible Beal trade. He has a no-trade clause, so he would have to approve a trade before that happens. It’s been an ugly fabrication so far, but winning cures a lot of things, and Durant and Ishbia know that as well as anyone.

Would Matt Ishbia Trade Kevin Durant?

It’s safe to say Durant is out of the picture in regards to any trade. Before the calf injury at the start of the season, he was playing at an MVP level. He would consistently finish the game as the guy who will take the last shot. Still, his skill set is timeless and has evolved graciously.

Despite not extending his contract, Durant reiterated his commitment to the team and the city. However, there may be more years behind the 2014 MVP than in front of him. As a result, his patience might wear thin. Teams have been knocking on Phoenix’s door throughout the offseason.

Unless a rebuild is underway, Durant will likely remain in Phoenix. A rising tide lifts all boats and in this case that tide wins. Through a three-game stretch, the Suns have regained their energy, enthusiasm and winning streak. It’s small, but worth a look. If those ways don’t hold, Ishbia will continue to explore all options to secure Phoenix’s first NBA title.