Former Los Angeles Lakers head coach Darvin Ham has reportedly declined an opportunity to join the Phoenix Suns’ coaching staff as an assistant under new head coach Mike Budenholzer.

According to NBA insider Marc Stein, shortly after being fired by the Lakers on May 3rd, Ham was offered the assistant coaching role with the Suns.

Stein noted that Ham “passed” on Budenholzer’s pitch, citing the “two exacting seasons in Lakerland” that left him fatigued.

Ham spent the last two years as the Lakers’ head coach, guiding the team to the playoffs in both seasons despite constant scrutiny and questions about his coaching abilities.

Many speculated about a potential rift between Ham and superstar LeBron James during his tenure.

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The 50-year-old Ham was an experienced assistant prior to landing the Lakers job, spending nine years working under Budenholzer with the Atlanta Hawks and Milwaukee Bucks, including their 2021 championship run.

Taking the Suns’ assistant role would have provided him the opportunity to coach another superstar duo in Kevin Durant and Devin Booker.

It appears Ham has decided to take a step back from coaching for the time being after his challenging stint with the Lakers.

His decision allowed the Suns to retain veteran assistant David Fizdale, who was previously offered a front office job before being asked to stay on Budenholzer’s staff.

While Ham’s decision is surprising, it underscores the toll that high-pressure head coaching jobs can take, even on experienced assistants like himself.

The former Lakers coach may now seek to recharge before determining his next move in the NBA.