Gregory's relationship with Suns owner Mat Ishbia dates back to the late 1990s. When Ishbia was a walk-on at Michigan State, Gregory was an assistant coach on Tom Izzo's staff. Gregory did not downplay this connection; he framed it as a positive thing. Why? Alignment!

Brian Gregory was introduced on Tuesday, May 6, as the new general manager of the Phoenix Suns. During Gregory’s press conference, the new GM raised some eyebrows when he revealed one of the reasons he was given the role of general manager.