The Atlanta Hawks have had interesting ties to the Phoenix Suns, with former head coach Mike Budenholzer spending last season with the franchise. After the veteran's firing, the team made a shocking decision to hire Jordan Ott, who had his start working under Budenholzer on Atlanta's staff. This further illustrates how hilariously run of a franchise the Suns continue to be. It is a mess of a team that lacks all rational answers. The latest headlines have all been centered around the uncertain future of veteran star Kevin Durant.
While the Suns prepare for this loss, Ott's staff is starting to take shape and will include a notable former Hawk. DeMarre Carroll has joined the staff as an assistant coach after crossing paths during Carroll's time with the Brooklyn Nets. Carroll was with Atlanta from 2013-2015, spending time with the Grizzlies, Rockets, Jazz, Nuggets, Hawks, Raptors, Nets, and Spurs before returning to Houston to end his career in the 2019-2020 season. In the years since, Carroll has shifted to coaching and will now join Ott's staff.
Former Hawks Defender DeMarre Carroll Continues Impressive Career
JUST IN: Phoenix Suns coach Jordan Ott has added DeMarre Carroll as an assistant coach on his bench, league sources told @hoopshype. Ott coached Carroll with the Brooklyn Nets and both worked together as assistant coaches for the Los Angeles Lakers and Cleveland Cavaliers. pic.twitter.com/MWgEJc20qB
— Michael Scotto (@MikeAScotto) June 12, 2025
Atlanta fans will remember Carroll or his wing defense and fit with one of the final fun veteran teams the fan base would watch for the next decade. In the years since, it has been failed attempts to build a young core with Trae Young still not being handed a true co-star. It speaks to the state of the organization and how frustrating it is to be a Hawks fan.
For Carroll, this is a great opportunity that gives the former Atlanta forward a chance to take another step forward in his coaching career. While the Suns might be focused on rebuilding, this does work in the favor of a coaching staff that is going to be dealing with incredibly low expectations in a stacked Western Conference.
Trading Kevin Durant signals that you're waving the white flag on the 2025-26 season and looking for a needed reset. With this in mind, Carroll should be given plenty of patience as the veteran looks to continue an impressive career.