Head coach Monty Williams agreed to a long-term contract extension with Phoenix Suns..

2022-07-24 11:25

Head coach Monty Williams agreed to a long-term contract extension with Phoenix Suns..

Monty Williams (pictured) of the Phoenix Suns looks on during the game against the Denver Nuggets on March 24, 2022 at the Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado, United States of America.




ARIZONA - The Phoenix Suns and coach Monty Williams have agreed to a long-term contract extension, according to ESPN's renowned insider Adrian Wojnarowski.


Williams, the 2021/22 NBA Coach of the Year, led the Suns to an NBA-best 64-18 regular-season record and the highest winning percentage (.780) in franchise history this past season.


Williams had two years left on a five-year deal, but it's another step to show owner Robert Sarver's commitment to a championship.


Since his arrival in 2019, taking over after a 19-win season, Williams has been a key cog in reversing organizational direction. His poise and leadership have rubbed off on young players like Devin Booker and experienced vets like Chris Paul.


The former NBA small forward also led Phoenix to its first appearance in the NBA Finals since 1993 in 2020/21, finishing second in NBA Coach of the Year voting that season. He previously coached the New Orleans Hornets/Pelicans from 2010 to 2015.


The Suns were defeated in the Western Conference semifinals this year by the Dallas Mavericks in seven games. 


Despite last season's early postseason exit, the Suns are all-in as a championship contender. General manger James Jones has brought back core contributors Booker, Paul, Deandre Ayton and Mikal Bridges.


With the Suns already over the luxury tax threshold of $150.267 million, Sarver has shown he is willing to do whatever it takes. And while the recent Ayton re-signing may have limited options, Phoenix still is in play as a potential destination for superstar Kevin Durant.