LAS VEGAS – The Phoenix Suns continue the Michigan State connection with the addition of Mateen Cleaves as a player-development coach. Cleaves was at Phoenix’s practice on July 10 in Las Vegas, prior to the Suns opening NBA Summer League action on July 11 against the Washington Wizards at Thomas & Mack Center.

The Phoenix Suns have hired former Michigan State national champion basketball player Mateen Cleaves as a player development coach, according to John Gambadoro, a radio host for 98.7 FM in Phoenix. It marks Cleaves’ first NBA experience since his retirement from the league in 2006.

According to John Gambadoro, a longtime radio host from the state of Arizona, is reporting that former Michigan State point guard and national champion Mateen Cleaves will be joining the Suns in a player development role.

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Jordan Ott and the Phoenix Suns continue to build their coaching staff, this time adding Jesse Mermuys from the Orlando Magic.

ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that Livers will sign a two-way contract with the Phoenix Suns. Livers last appeared in an NBA game in January 2024. He missed all of last season because of hip surgery. Per Charania, Livers “has made a full recovery.”