The Phoenix Suns’ center position remains up for grabs as Oso Ighodaro and Khaman Maluach continue to compete for the starting role in the preseason. Coach Jordan Ott refused to confirm a clear frontrunner after Ighodaro started the first two games, saying the team will keep experimenting through the remaining three preseason matches.
“We'll take the same preseason approach,” Ott said Friday after practice. “Five of these games. Two young guys. They continue to get better. Have different gifts that we're still trying to figure out. Mix and match a little bit even in these last three games.”
Ighodaro, who has started against the Detroit Pistons and Chicago Bulls, has yet to secure the spot despite the Suns’ 0-2 preseason record. Maluach, a 7-footer, remains in contention and could see a start when the Suns face the San Antonio Spurs on Saturday, Oct. 10. The game kicks off at 7:30 p.m. at the Mortgage Matchup Center and will be televised on ESPN2.
Maluch’s potential start draws particular attention because the Spurs will feature Victor Wembanyama, the reigning NBA Defensive Player of the Year who led San Antonio to the 2026 NBA Finals. Ott has not ruled out matching Maluach against Wembanyama, suggesting the decision will hinge on tactical considerations.
The Spurs, who are 0-1 in preseason after losing 123-116 to the Atlanta Hawks on Oct. 8, were missing De’Aaron Fox due to soreness from a recent workout, according to the San Antonio Express-News. The Suns will also be monitoring their roster as Miles Bridges remains questionable after sustaining a right ankle injury in the second quarter against the Bulls. Ott confirmed X-rays were negative but emphasized caution with Bridges’ recovery, saying the team plans to “be smart” with his return.
Both Ighodaro and Maluach are young players still developing their games, making this competition a fluid situation. Ott’s comments suggest the coaching staff is focusing on player growth and fit rather than rushing to a decision. The Suns’ remaining preseason games will provide further clarity, but no definitive starter has emerged.
The Suns’ focus on these two centers reflects a broader effort to solidify their frontcourt ahead of the regular season. With the team eager to improve after the preseason losses, the coaching staff is weighing different combinations to find the best balance.
The third preseason game against the Spurs offers the latest chance for Ighodaro and Maluach to stake their claim. How Ott configures the lineup against the Spurs’ roster, particularly facing Wembanyama, will reveal more about the Suns’ plans for the center position as the regular season approaches.
According to Yahoo Sports.
