GOOD NEWS FOR THE SUNS: He’s Back! Charles Barkley  Stoudemire Rejoins Suns — The High-Flying Legend Returns to Phoenix in a Shocking Coaching Move.

In a stunning and emotional homecoming for Phoenix Suns fans, two of the franchise’s most iconic figures are returning to the Valley of the Sun—not as players, but as leaders and mentors. Charles Barkley and Amar’e Stoudemire, two power forwards who defined their eras in Phoenix, have officially rejoined the organization in a new capacity: Barkley as a minority co-owner and Stoudemire as an assistant coach specializing in player development.

The announcement came early Friday morning in a joint press conference held at Footprint Center, where team owner Mat Ishbia revealed the move as part of the organization’s broader strategy to reconnect with its championship-aspiring roots.

“This is a historic day for the Suns,” Ishbia said. “Charles helped put Phoenix on the national map in the ’90s. Amar’e brought energy and explosiveness that defined a generation. To have them back in our building, guiding the next wave of talent, is a dream come true—for the team, the city, and the fans.”

Charles Barkley, 61, played four seasons with the Suns from 1992 to 1996, winning the NBA MVP in 1993 and leading the team to the Finals. His return to Phoenix marks the first time he has taken a direct leadership role within an NBA franchise since retiring. Now a part-owner, Barkley will reportedly act as a cultural ambassador and strategic advisor.

“This is full circle for me,” Barkley said. “Phoenix gave me some of the best years of my life. I’ve always said this city deserved a championship, and I want to do my part to help get us there.”

Perhaps the more surprising move was Amar’e Stoudemire’s appointment to the coaching staff. The 42-year-old spent the first eight years of his career in Phoenix and became known for his explosive dunks, elite pick-and-roll play, and partnership with Steve Nash. After stints in Miami, New York, and even Israel, Stoudemire has stayed active in player development and coaching overseas.

Now, he’s back to help the Suns cultivate the next generation of big men.

“I’m not here to relive the past—I’m here to build the future,” Stoudemire said. “This roster has incredible potential, and I see a lot of myself in some of these young players. I want to teach them how to dominate the paint and play the right way.”

Head coach Mike Budenholzer welcomed Stoudemire’s addition to the bench, calling it “a huge win for our locker room and our culture.”

Fans across Arizona have flooded social media with excitement and nostalgia, sharing highlights, vintage jerseys, and messages of support. The Suns, long hungry for a return to the NBA Finals, now find themselves not only with a retooled roster—but a reinvigorated spirit rooted in the legends of the past.

The message is clear: Phoenix is all in. And with Barkley and Stoudemire back in the fold, the Suns’ future might finally be as bright as their name.