The NBA world recently saw the biggest deal made in league history when Mat Ishbia bought the Phoenix Suns and the WNBA team Phoenix Mercury for an eye-popping $4 billion. The deal comes on the heels of various allegations against the previous owner, Robert Sarver. Ishbia and his brother Justin agreed on the huge number with Sarver in December 2022 and finalized it on February 7th.

This particular deal is record-shattering not only because of the sale value but also due to the team itself. The Suns have never won a league title and neither do they have their own arena. Aiming to better the organization in whatever way possible, Ishbia commented he wants the team to have the best work environment. And fellow NBA owner Alex Rodriguez had something to say about the purchase.

Alex Rodriguez has immense respect for Mat Ishbia’s business past

A-Rod recently made an appearance at the WM Phoenix Open, a professional golf tournament held during the PGA Tour. And Tyler Drake from Arizona Sports asked him about what he thought of the newest member in the NBA ownership arena. The former Yankee told him, “He brings an impressive pedigree of buying businesses, growing businesses and the NBA is excited to have him.”

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Rodriguez is, of course, part owner of the NBA team Minnesota Timberwolves and the WNBA team Minnesota Lynx. Having a business empire of his own, he relates to as well as respects the Wholesale Mortgage owner. As for the Phoenix Suns, Ishbia is already trading players and making waves in the NBA community. Notably, 2014 NBA MVP Kevin Durant is also expected to join the Suns from the Brooklyn Nets.

Before becoming a businessman, Mat Ishbia used to be an athlete himself

Once upon a time, Ishbia wanted to play basketball professionally. Playing for Michigan State as a walk-on point guard, he also won the 2000 national championship with them. However, after the harsh realization that he wasn’t good enough to go pro, he decided to become part of the NBA in a different manner.

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The Suns received him enthusiastically as he made his official speech as the new owner. The crowd also included former team members like Kevin Johnson, Tom Chambers, and Dan Majerle. Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego was also present. Now, owing to his status as a billionaire, one can only guess where Ishbia will take the team going forward.