Phoenix Suns Part Ways with Guard Cole Anthony in Roster Shakeup
The Phoenix Suns made a significant roster adjustment on Friday, officially waiving guard Cole Anthony according to multiple reports. ESPN's Shams Charania first broke the news, confirming the franchise's decision to release the 25-year-old player who had been with the team for less than a month.
Trade Acquisition Never Saw Court Time with Suns
Anthony arrived in Phoenix as part of a three-team trade at the NBA deadline in early February that also brought Amir Coffey from the Milwaukee Bucks. While Coffey has been integrated into the Suns' rotation, Anthony never appeared in a game for Phoenix. According to NBA source Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints, the Suns had been considering this move since acquiring Anthony.
"The Phoenix Suns have waived guard Cole Anthony, sources tell ESPN," Charania wrote on social media platform X. "Anthony averaged 6.7 points in 35 games for the Bucks before being moved at the NBA trade deadline."
Complex Journey Through Multiple Franchises
Anthony's path to Phoenix has been particularly circuitous:
- Originally drafted 15th overall by the Orlando Magic in the 2020 NBA Draft
- Traded to the Memphis Grizzlies last June in a blockbuster deal involving Desmond Bane
- Waived by Memphis and signed with the Milwaukee Bucks in July 2025
- Traded to Phoenix in February's three-team transaction
During his 35 appearances with Milwaukee this season, Anthony averaged:
- 6.7 points per game
- 2.5 rebounds per game
- 3.5 assists per game
- Playing just over 15 minutes per contest
Future Opportunities and Roster Implications
With the March 1 buyout deadline approaching, Anthony now enters the waiver process and could potentially be claimed by another NBA team. According to Siegel, while some international organizations have expressed interest, Anthony may still pursue another NBA opportunity, possibly through a 10-day contract or rest-of-season deal.
The Suns' decision creates an open roster spot that could be filled in several ways. Phoenix could potentially convert two-way contract guard Jamaree Bouyea to a standard NBA contract, or explore other free agent options. The team recently added Haywood Highsmith after acquiring him from the Brooklyn Nets earlier this month.
Anthony's shooting splits with Milwaukee this season included 42.4% from the field, 30.6% from three-point range, and 61.5% from the free-throw line. His departure marks another chapter in what has become a nomadic NBA journey for the former first-round pick seeking stability and consistent playing time.
