The Phoenix Suns have waived guard Cole Anthony soon after acquiring him in a salary-clearing transaction at the trade deadline, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania. This move was part of the Suns’ efforts to manage their roster and financial flexibility ahead of the playoffs.
Delay in waiving to consider buyout and roster limits
Reports from Arizona Sports 98.7’s John Gambadoro indicate that the Suns postponed waiving Anthony to explore a potential buyout option. Additionally, Suns After Dark’s Gerald Bourguet explained that the team waited until two-way guard Jamaree Bouyea approached his games-played limit before making the final decision.
While Head Coach Jordan Ott noted that Anthony was retained on the roster as an emergency option for backcourt depth, the player did not officially join the team or appear in any games.
Cole Anthony’s career overview and recent transactions
Cole Anthony, selected as the 15th overall pick in the 2020 NBA draft, spent five seasons with the Orlando Magic. During his time there, he averaged 12.5 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 3.8 assists over 320 games. In 2025, Anthony was traded to Memphis, where he negotiated a buyout before signing with the Milwaukee Bucks.
With the Bucks, Anthony contributed 6.7 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 3.5 assists in 35 games. His latest move to Phoenix came in a three-team deal designed to help the Suns reduce luxury tax costs.
Roster adjustments and playoff eligibility ramifications
The Suns plan to elevate Jamaree Bouyea from his two-way contract to a standard roster spot, which will open a two-way slot the team must fill by next Wednesday. If unclaimed off waivers by Sunday, Anthony will clear waivers and remain eligible for the playoffs, as his release occurred before the March 1 deadline.
Suns Waive Cole Anthony https://t.co/4ZnJDSJKlM pic.twitter.com/PfbC1QxYFu
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) February 27, 2026
Cole Anthony vs. MIA:
35 PTS
8 REB
9 AST
13-25 FG
7-7 FT
28 MIN off the bench pic.twitter.com/Wj5xjgZFgM— Orlando Magic (@OrlandoMagic) December 22, 2024
Suns Waive Cole Anthony https://t.co/4ZnJDSJKlM pic.twitter.com/PfbC1QxYFu
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) February 27, 2026
