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The Phoenix Suns have named Earl Watson their next head coach, removing the interim tag Watson has had since taking over the job in February.

"Earl did a very good job with our team last season after taking over as interim head coach during a challenging time for the organization," Suns general manager Ryan McDonough said in a press release Tuesday. "Earl's natural leadership qualities and his ability to connect with and motivate our players have stood out through his time here in Phoenix. We are excited to see what he can do with a healthy roster after having a full offseason to prepare."

Watson's ascension to NBA head coach was a rapid one. After retiring in 2014 following a 13-year NBA career—including a stint as a point guard with the Utah Jazz—Watson spent one year as the head coach of the D-League Austin Spurs. Last fall, Watson was added to the Suns coaching staff as an assistant coach.

With the Suns failing to meet expectations, the franchise shook up Jeff Hornacek's coaching staff midseason, firing his top assistants and promoting Watson in the process. In February, the Suns fired Hornacek, too, and named Watson the team's interim head coach.

Watson put together a 9-24 record after taking over. The Suns, young and hampered by injuries, rallied around their new coach. Phoenix won three of its final four games of the season.

"We're trying to build it from the ground up," Watson said earlier this month. "The right way. The only way."

Watson, 36, is now the youngest head coach in the NBA.

— Aaron Falk