The Phoenix Suns have officially begun their media day ahead of the 2026-27 season, and owner Mat Ishbia is adamant that he isn't going anywhere for the "next 40, 50 years".
Ishbia leaves no doubt as to his commitment to the franchise
Ishbia was also quick to shut down any talk that his own financial woes at his company, United Wholesale Mortgage, would affect the Suns moving forward. He is as committed as ever to building a winner in Phoenix and appears willing to spend what it takes to make that happen.
Mat Ishbia said how his company, United Wholesale Mortgage, fares has no bearing on his ownership of the Phoenix Suns.
— Duane Rankin (@DuaneRankin) September 28, 2026
Said he plans to own Suns for "40, 50 years." #Suns pic.twitter.com/DUmEYvulHV
In fact, he plans to buy another 14 per cent of the franchise, which, when combined with the stake owned by his father and brother, brings the Ishbia family to around the 90 per cent mark, leaving no doubt about his family's intention to stick around in The Valley for a long time.
Ishbia's tenure as Suns owner so far has been eventful, but having an owner who will be around long-term ensures stability at the top. Even if he might be a little too in love with the idea of surrounding himself with Michigan guys.
During media availability he also mentioned paying the luxury tax like it was something he will be doing for years to come. Not the most financially savvy way to run a company, but it is not the fan's money and so they won't care. Ishbia has always said he will do what it takes to build a winner, and that has included spending his own money. A lot of it.
Second apron continues to confound Ishbia
While it is great that he is so bullish about owning the organization and spending what is required to win, not to mention his hilarious rejection of this Pistons fan's pleas to send them Devin Booker, the league is set up in such a way now that owners can't buy a championship.
That pesky second apron has undone Ishbia in the past, and was why he could only afford to add Jusuf Nurkic to a core that included Booker, Durant and Bradley Beal.
What he actually needs is to plan better for the future, with Khaman Maluach a prospect General Manager Brian Gregory was raving about at media day. Until he can take draft picks and building a roster that can contend for an extended period seriously, he will be left paying a hefty tax for an average final product.
Despite this, Mat Ishbia is clearly here to stay.
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