The Suns just SHOCKED the NBA…

The NBA is a league of rapid change, where preseason predictions can unravel and new contenders emerge seemingly overnight. Few teams have embodied this unpredictability more than the Phoenix Suns during the 2025–26 season. Written off by many as fringe play-in hopefuls, the Suns have stunned the basketball world with a five-wins-in-six-games run, capped by a dramatic victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder—widely regarded as one of the league’s best teams.

With Denver facing an injury crisis and the Suns climbing the standings, Phoenix is now within striking distance of the Western Conference’s third seed. This feature explores the factors behind their turnaround, the roster retooling around Devin Booker, and the collective effort that has transformed expectations for this resilient squad.

Defying Expectations: From Play-In Contenders to Playoff Threats

Entering the season, the Suns were not expected to contend for a top-six spot. Analysts and fans alike saw a roster in transition, with questions swirling about depth, chemistry, and the viability of past superstar trios. Yet, Phoenix has outperformed projections, currently sitting just a few games out of third place and positioning themselves to escape the play-in tournament entirely.

This reversal is all the more impressive given the adversity faced—including significant injuries to key rivals and the challenges of integrating new faces. The Suns’ success is not a fluke; it is the product of deliberate roster construction, strategic coaching, and a renewed commitment to defense and ball movement.

Devin Booker: The Engine of the Suns’ Resurgence

At the heart of Phoenix’s resurgence is Devin Booker, who continues to demonstrate why he is one of the NBA’s premier guards. Booker’s ability to create offense, hit clutch shots, and facilitate for teammates has been the cornerstone of the Suns’ new identity.

Last night against the Thunder, Booker delivered a signature performance: 24 points, 9 assists, and 6 rebounds, including a game-winning shot over two elite defenders with less than a second remaining. His passing has reached new heights this season, averaging 6.4 assists per game through 35 contests. While his three-point percentage has dipped for the second consecutive year (currently at 30%), Booker’s mid-range mastery and decision-making have offset any concerns, reflecting a broader league trend of valuing mid-range efficiency.

Booker’s season averages—25.7 points, 6.4 assists, 4.2 rebounds, and a steal in 34 minutes per game on 46% shooting—underscore his all-around impact. The Suns have built around his strengths, assembling a roster that supports his skill set and allows him to be the focal point on both ends of the floor.

The Roster Revamp: Moving Beyond the Superstar Trio

Phoenix’s transformation began with a philosophical shift away from the star-laden trio of Booker, Kevin Durant, and Bradley Beal. While each player is individually brilliant, their overlapping skill sets and ball-dominant tendencies made synergy elusive. The experiment yielded flashes of brilliance but ultimately fell short of sustained success.

Recognizing the need for balance, the Suns’ front office retooled the roster around Booker, prioritizing defensive versatility, shooting, and unselfish play. The addition of high-impact role players and the appointment of head coach Jordan Nott have been instrumental in fostering a culture of accountability and cohesion.

Defensive Identity: A Commitment to Stops

Under Coach Nott, the Suns have become one of the league’s most disciplined defensive teams. They currently rank sixth in opponent points per game, tenth in defensive rating, and thirteenth in offensive rating—a testament to their balanced approach.

Phoenix’s preseason over-under was set at 31 wins, but the team has already exceeded expectations, thanks in large part to their defensive tenacity. The coaching staff has instilled a mentality of resilience, as evidenced by their refusal to quit after falling behind by 15 points against the Thunder. Instead, the Suns battled back, executing smart sets and leveraging their depth to wear down the opposition.

Key Contributors: Role Players Stepping Up

Colin Gillespie: The Breakout Point Guard

Gillespie’s emergence as a starting point guard has been one of the season’s biggest surprises. Averaging 14 points, 5 assists, and 4 rebounds in 28 minutes per game, Gillespie is shooting 44% from the field and 42% from three on seven attempts per contest. His efficiency and poise have drawn comparisons to Austin Reaves, and while fans may debate the merits, Gillespie’s impact is undeniable.

His ability to run the pick-and-roll, find Booker in scoring positions, and knock down open threes makes him a valuable floor spacer and secondary creator. Gillespie’s development is a testament to Phoenix’s commitment to identifying and nurturing talent.

Dylan Brooks: Culture Reset and Defensive Intensity

Known for his defensive prowess and competitive fire, Brooks has helped reset the Suns’ culture. Averaging 21.5 points, 3 rebounds, 1.7 assists, and 1.3 steals on 46% shooting and 34% from three, Brooks has delivered clutch performances against elite opponents. His shotmaking, especially in isolation and late-clock situations, has been critical to Phoenix’s success.

Brooks’ leadership and willingness to take on tough defensive assignments have elevated the team’s intensity, setting a standard for accountability and effort.

Jordan Goodwin: The Unexpected Sharpshooter

Goodwin’s performance against the Thunder—26 points on 8-of-13 shooting from three—was a revelation. Previously averaging nine points, 4.5 rebounds, and two assists on 36% from three, Goodwin’s shooting barrage provided a spark that ignited the Suns’ comeback. His ability to respond to scoring runs and hit timely shots has made him a valuable rotation piece.

Goodwin’s emergence illustrates the importance of depth and the potential for role players to seize the moment.

Mark Williams: Reliable Interior Presence

Williams has played in 30 of 35 games, averaging 13 points, 8 rebounds, 1.2 assists, and 2.1 stocks (steals plus blocks). His steady production, efficient minutes management, and improved health have solidified Phoenix’s frontcourt rotation. Williams’ ability to protect the rim, rebound, and finish inside adds a dimension of physicality to the Suns’ lineup.

Ryan Dunn and Royce O’Neal: Versatility and Shooting

Dunn, a 6’8” wing with a 7’2” wingspan, went 3-of-7 from three against the Thunder. While his season average sits at 31% from deep, continued improvement could secure his place in the rotation. O’Neal, meanwhile, has been a model of consistency, averaging 10 points, 5 rebounds, 2.8 assists, and 1.2 steals on 43% shooting and 41% from three. His ability to space the floor, make smart decisions, and defend multiple positions has been invaluable.

O’Neal’s high-IQ plays, such as quick skips to exploit defensive mismatches, exemplify Phoenix’s commitment to ball movement and tactical execution.

Oso Ighodaro: Emerging Backup Center

Ighodaro has taken over the backup center role from Nick Richards, averaging 19.5 minutes per game and providing energy, rebounding, and rim protection. His development adds depth to the Suns’ frontcourt and ensures that Phoenix can maintain defensive intensity throughout games.

Grayson Allen: The Missing Piece

Allen, one of the league’s premier shooters, is currently day-to-day with an injury. Averaging 16 points, 4 rebounds, 2.7 assists, and 1.7 steals in 31 minutes on 43% shooting and 39% from three, Allen’s return will further bolster Phoenix’s spacing and offensive firepower. His ability to hit shots off movement and create for others makes him a crucial component of the Suns’ attack.

Jaylen Green: Potential X-Factor

Green has played only two games due to injury, but his 29-point, 3-rebound, 3-assist, 2-steal performance in 22 minutes showcased his explosive scoring ability. Shooting 10-of-20 from the field and 6-of-13 from three, Green’s return could provide a dynamic scoring punch. With a re-evaluation scheduled for next week, Suns fans are hopeful for a swift recovery.

Strategic Coaching: Jordan Nott’s Impact

Head coach Jordan Nott has been instrumental in Phoenix’s turnaround, emphasizing defensive principles, ball movement, and adaptability. Nott’s willingness to experiment with lineups, empower role players, and hold stars accountable has created a culture of trust and resilience.

The Suns’ ability to execute complex sets, respond to adversity, and maintain poise under pressure reflects Nott’s influence. His strategic acumen and leadership have positioned Phoenix as one of the league’s most improved teams.

Looking Ahead: The Path to Sustained Success

Phoenix’s ascent is not merely a hot streak—it is the result of intentional planning, player development, and a commitment to team-first basketball. The Suns have built a roster that complements Booker’s talents, embraces defensive intensity, and leverages the strengths of versatile role players.

As the season progresses, the return of key contributors like Grayson Allen and Jaylen Green will provide additional firepower. The Suns’ depth, adaptability, and collective spirit make them a legitimate playoff threat, capable of competing with the league’s elite.

Conclusion: A New Era in the Valley

The Phoenix Suns have rewritten their narrative, transforming from overlooked play-in hopefuls to contenders in the Western Conference. Devin Booker’s leadership, a reimagined roster, and strategic coaching have sparked a resurgence that has captured the attention of fans and analysts alike.

Phoenix’s journey is a testament to the power of adaptability, resilience, and smart team-building. As they continue to climb the standings, the Suns are poised to shape the postseason landscape and inspire a new era of basketball in the Valley.