Currently in his fourth season as general manager of the Phoenix Suns, Ryan McDonough is considered one of the brightest minds in NBA player evaluation. With a successful track record in the NBA Draft, in 2016 he landed the team two of the draft’s top eight picks.

Prior to joining the Suns, Ryan worked for 11 seasons in various positions with the Boston Celtics, for whom he helped orchestrate the biggest season-to-season turnaround in NBA history, moving from 24 wins in 2006-07 to 66 and an NBA title in 2007-08.

Ryan, who has roots in Rossaveal and Carraroe in Co. Galway, reveals that his grandfather “was an Irish immigrant who worked on the railroad in south Boston.” He adds, “My family has always honored our Irish heritage by working hard to positively impact our community.”

Born in Hingham, Massachusetts, Ryan is the brother of ABC/ESPN broadcaster Sean, and Arizona Cardinals vice president of player personnel Terry. He holds a degree in journalism and mass communication from the University of North Carolina and lives in Phoenix with his wife, Valerie.