Despite interest from several NBA teams, it appears that veteran assistant coach Royal Ivey will remain with head coach Ime Udoka and the Houston Rockets through at least the 2025–26 season.
According to Marc Stein of The Stein Line, “Multiple teams, including San Antonio, have pursued Rockets assistant coach Royal Ivey this offseason, but Ivey is expected to stay in Houston.” Ivey reportedly interviewed for the Phoenix Suns’ head coaching vacancy — a job that ultimately went to Jordan Ott — and maintains a strong personal relationship with Kevin Durant.
Notably, Durant continues to be linked to the Rockets in trade speculation. Ivey and Durant share a connection that dates back to their time as college teammates at the University of Texas, alongside former NBA guard DJ Augustin, who recently joined Houston’s front office.
HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto also reported that the Memphis Grizzlies showed interest in Ivey for an assistant role. As was the case with San Antonio, this did not involve a head coaching opportunity, unlike the Phoenix job.
Since Udoka’s arrival in Houston for the 2023–24 season, Ivey has been a key part of the coaching staff. Their collaboration is expected to continue into a third season after a highly successful campaign where the Rockets posted a 52-30 record and finished second in the Western Conference. Udoka, who placed third in Coach of the Year voting, has frequently credited his coaching staff, including Ivey, for the team’s turnaround.
Beyond his NBA experience as a player and assistant coach, Ivey, now 43, also led South Sudan’s national team to its first Olympic appearance and win in 2024. His resume continues to position him as a future NBA head coach, but for now, the Rockets will benefit from his continued presence — and possibly use it to entice Durant as well.
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