Suns Managing Partner Robert Sarver released the following statement today on the stories surrounding Suns President and General Manager Bryan Colangelo:

?At the time we reached agreement on the purchase of the Suns, Bryan Colangelo and I agreed on a three-year contract that continues through the 2006-07 season that includes an ownership interest in the team.  I also had an understanding with Bryan that, if another opportunity presented itself that he wished to explore, I would not stand in his way. Consistent with that, when another team asked permission to speak with Bryan, I granted permission at his request.

?I have had discussions with Bryan regarding an extension on his contract and those conversations are ongoing. My hope remains he will stay in Phoenix.?