Phoenix Suns' owner Mat Ishbia faced plenty of skepticism as the season kicked off, with Bill Simmons being one of his most vocal critics. Simmons, known for his outspoken opinions, often targeted Ishbia, especially when he predicted the Suns would struggle defensively.
As the regular season wraps up, Simmons has changed his tune, acknowledging on his podcast that he underestimated Ishbia and the Suns for the 2025-26 season.
Simmons praised the Suns for becoming an exciting team to watch again, contrasting with the struggles of the Houston Rockets after acquiring Kevin Durant. Phoenix's roster, featuring talents like Collin Gillespie and Dillon Brooks, has brought energy and competitiveness to the court. Rookies Rasheer Fleming and Khaman Maluach have added intrigue, while Grayson Allen has embraced a more significant role.
Simmons also admired the Suns' front office for maintaining future assets, despite many predicting a bleak outlook at the season's start. The team's playoff push has made their traded first-round picks less valuable, and players like Allen and Jalen Green have increased their market value.
While it's not yet time for Phoenix to chase another star, the franchise has positioned itself with young talent that could be valuable in future trades. This season was about reconnecting with fans, and Ishbia has achieved that goal, surpassing expectations despite a few recent setbacks.
Simmons' willingness to commend Ishbia, especially after their earlier exchanges, highlights the remarkable turnaround in Phoenix. As the Suns head into the postseason, even a competitive first-round showing could boost their confidence for the offseason.
Ishbia will soon face tough decisions regarding players like Gillespie, but for now, he can enjoy the unexpected praise and the positive momentum building in The Valley.