The Phoenix Suns, Bakersfield Jam, and NBA Development League have announced that the Suns have entered into a single-affiliation relationship with the Jam beginning with the 2014-15 season.

With the partnership, the Suns become the record 15th NBA franchise to have a one-to-one relationship with an NBA D-League team, solidifying half of the NBA’s 30 teams as singly-affiliated.



The Suns will oversee and fund all aspects of the Jam’s basketball operations while the local ownership in Bakersfield, led by Stan Ellis and David Higdon, will continue to manage the team’s business operations and community outreach. Executives and players from both teams will celebrate the partnership with fans in Bakersfield at an event in September.



Phoenix has named Bubba Burrage, the Suns’ Head Pro Personnel Scout for the past three seasons, as the General Manager in Bakersfield. Burrage brings 21 years of experience in the NBA, holding scouting, coaching, video and front office positions. Burrage will continue scouting in addition to serving as General Manager of the Jam.