The Phoenix Suns’ coaching search is heating up — and a new frontrunner is emerging from an unexpected corner of the NBA bench.
Brooklyn Nets assistant coach Steve Hetzel has garnered serious internal support from the Suns’ front office, league sources tell me. One source put it bluntly: “He was in the lead on Saturday.”
Hetzel, a veteran assistant coach with a track record of player development and organizational respect, served this past season under Nets head coach Jordi Fernández. While much of the coaching spotlight in Brooklyn has centered on Fernández’s rise, Hetzel has quietly built his own profile around the league, earning praise for his basketball IQ, calm leadership style, and ability to connect with players across a variety of locker rooms.
His name gaining traction in Phoenix signals the Suns may be leaning toward a more developmental, system-oriented approach after moving on from Frank Vogel. With stars like Devin Booker, Kevin Durant, and Bradley Beal already in place, the next head coach will need to balance star management with the ability to elevate the supporting cast — a skill Hetzel has honed throughout his NBA journey.
Prior to his stint in Brooklyn, Hetzel was an assistant video coordinator for the San Antonio Spurs before becoming the video coordinator for the Cleveland Cavaliers from 2006 to 2009 under head coach Mike Brown.
Following his stint with the Spurs and the Cavaliers, Hetzel spent four seasons as a player development coach for the Detroit Pistons from 2009-2013 and following that post in Detroit, he became the head coach of the G League’s Canton Charge during the 2013-14 season.
Hetzel has also held assistant coaching roles with the Portland Trail Blazers and the Charlotte,Hornets. Known as a meticulous film guy and systems thinker, Hetzel has earned high marks within coaching circles even if he’s rarely in front of a camera.
Phoenix’s coaching search has included a mix of established names and up-and-coming assistants, but Hetzel’s rise speaks to the organization’s possible desire to inject a fresh perspective into a high-pressure situation. Team owner Mat Ishbia has made it clear he expects results — but also wants a strong cultural foundation to build on.
If Hetzel lands the job, it would mark his first NBA head coaching position.
For now, Steve Hetzel may not be a household name. But in league circles, especially out West, he’s one worth remembering.
