Jordan Ott reveals the Phoenix Suns will play physical defense no matter what

Feb 22, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns head coach Jordan Ott reacts against the Portland Trail Blazers in the first half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

In the 2025-26 NBA season, the Phoenix Suns have been an impressive team. After Kevin Durant left the Suns, most people's expectations were low for Phoenix. However, head coach Jordan Ott has spearheaded a resurgent season.

A big part of their success this season has been their commitment to playing physical defense. They have their offense handled with the likes of Devin Booker and Jalen Green, but the rest of the team have stepped up defensively.

Ott remains focused on the Suns playing physical defense

Dillon Brooks was a massive acquisition for the Suns in the Durant trade. Most people thought Green was the only good player in the package, but Brooks has brought surprising offense and the physical brand of defense he is known for.

Ott loves that kind of defense, which is why he wants the rest of the Suns to play that way too. Even if they have faced all types of injuries this season, Ott wants better consistency on the defensive side of the game from his players.

MORE: Jordan Ott celebrates Devin Booker's ability to be a playmaker and scorer

Against the Charlotte Hornets on Thursday, the Suns lost by 20 points. It was a tough loss to stomach, but Ott wants his team to keep playing physical defense because he believes it is the best approach moving forward.

"We'll have to take a look. What hurt us was the middle pick-and-roll, small-small pick-and-roll. That hurt us there in that stretch. That's two smalls, and they were able to beat us off the bounce and get to the rim," Ott said after the loss to Charlotte.

"Everything is on the table. We're trying to figure this thing out on the fly, and that's what I just said. We've got to expedite it. There's no excuse. We just have to figure it out."

This approach is a valid one because the Suns are headed into the postseason. They are at least assured a spot in the Play-In Tournament, where the game will slow down and a more physical defense is required.

As the Suns continue to progress with Ott as the head coach, his vision becomes clear. He wants more physical defense and a cohesive offense led by Booker as the cornerstone player.

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