In a move that has electrified the Phoenix basketball community and reignited nostalgia for the franchise’s golden years, former NBA MVP and Phoenix Suns legend Steve Nash is officially returning to the team—but this time, not as a player. The Suns announced today that Nash will rejoin the organization as a Senior Coaching Advisor, marking a major moment in franchise history.
The news broke just hours before the Suns tipped off at PHX Arena, and the buzz quickly spread through the crowd. Chants of “Nash! Nash! Nash!” broke out during warmups as the arena’s jumbotron displayed a highlight reel of his iconic passes, three-pointers, and buzzer-beaters.
Full-Circle Moment
Nash, 51, will serve in an advisory role that supports the coaching staff and player development team. According to the Suns front office, Nash will work closely with head coach Mike Budenholzer, who took over the helm this season, as well as with the team’s guards, bringing his Hall of Fame basketball IQ back to the organization that he helped define.
“I couldn’t be more excited to return to Phoenix,” Nash said during the official announcement. “This city means the world to me. I’ve always felt a deep connection to the Suns, and now, I get to be a part of the next generation’s journey—hopefully helping this team take the next step toward a championship.”
Legendary Legacy
Nash is widely considered the greatest player in Phoenix Suns history. During his two stints with the franchise (1996–1998, 2004–2012), Nash transformed the Suns into perennial contenders with his fast-paced, high-IQ style of play. A two-time league MVP (2005 and 2006), Nash helped revolutionize the modern NBA offense with his pick-and-roll mastery, court vision, and leadership.
He still holds numerous Suns franchise records and was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2018.
Now, more than a decade after his final game in purple and orange, Nash returns not just as a symbol of the past—but as an architect of the future.
Fans React: “It Feels Like Home Again”
As news of Nash’s return spread, Suns fans flooded social media with joy and surprise. #NashReturns and #SunsLegend were trending on X (formerly Twitter) within minutes of the announcement.
“This feels like the heart of the Suns is back,” one fan posted. Another wrote, “We’ve come full circle. If anyone can bring out the best in our guards, it’s Steve Nash.”
Outside the arena, fans sporting Nash’s classic No. 13 jersey posed for photos and talked about what his return means for the team. “He’s not just a player—he’s the soul of this franchise,” said longtime season ticket holder Miguel Reyes. “Seeing him back on the sidelines? Goosebumps.”
Inside the Organization
Head coach Mike Budenholzer welcomed Nash’s appointment with enthusiasm. “Having a basketball mind like Steve’s in our corner is an incredible asset. He understands this team, this city, and the responsibility of winning here,” Budenholzer said. “Our players are going to benefit tremendously from his insight.”
General Manager James Jones, who played alongside Nash during the mid-2000s, played a key role in facilitating the reunion. “We’re building something special, and bringing Steve back is a signal of our long-term vision—balancing tradition with innovation.”
Nash will reportedly work part-time throughout the regular season and take on a larger presence during training camps and playoffs. His primary focus will be mentoring the Suns’ guard rotation, including breakout star Devin Booker and rising playmaker Collin Sexton.
Nash’s Coaching Comeback
This isn’t Nash’s first foray into coaching. He previously served as head coach of the Brooklyn Nets from 2020 to 2022, leading the team to consecutive playoff appearances but stepping down amid roster instability and off-court challenges. Now, returning to Phoenix in a non-head coaching role, Nash says he’s eager to focus on mentorship and development.
“This is about being where I’m needed,” Nash said. “I’m not here for the spotlight. I’m here because I care deeply about this organization—and because I believe we have what it takes to win it all.”
Looking Ahead
As the Suns continue to chase their first-ever NBA championship, the return of one of their most beloved icons adds a new layer of excitement and emotional fuel. With Nash back in the building, fans are dreaming big once again.
“It just feels right,” said Booker after the announcement. “Having Steve around, it’s like having the blueprint walk through the door. We’re going to learn a lot.”
From MVP to mentor, Steve Nash is back in the Valley—and the Suns’ future just got a little brighter.