Charles Barkley, ESPN’s Inside the NBA analyst and former Phoenix Suns player, announced in a SiriusXM NBA Radio interview on Wednesday that he selected forward Dillon Brooks as part of his NBA All-Star reserves for the Western Conference. Barkley emphasized Brooks’ significant contribution to the Phoenix Suns’ performance this season.
Barkley Compares Brooks’ Role to Draymond Green’s Past Impact
Before the full list of seven reserve picks from the Inside the NBA panel was revealed, Barkley credited Brooks for carrying a role similar to former NBA champion Draymond Green’s during Golden State Warriors’ peak years. Barkley stated,
“I put Dillon Brooks on my team,”
and added,
“What Dillon Brooks is doing for the Phoenix Suns is similar and comparable to what Draymond (Green) did for the Warriors when they were rolling and he was like the third or fourth All-Star.”
Brooks’ Career Growth in His First Season with the Suns
This season marks Brooks’ initial campaign with Phoenix after being acquired in the trade involving Kevin Durant. Currently, Brooks is delivering career-best numbers, averaging 20.5 points per game and shooting 44% from the field. His offensive activity has also increased, with a career-high 17.1 shot attempts per game while playing about 31 minutes per contest.
Brooks’ Importance to the Suns Amid Injuries and Playoff Positioning
With key Suns players like Devin Booker and Jalen Green sidelined due to injuries, Brooks’ presence has been essential in keeping Phoenix competitive. Appearing in 41 of the team’s 46 games, his availability has helped maintain the Suns’ standing as the sixth seed in the Western Conference. Suns owner Matt Ishbia has dismissed any rumors about trading Brooks before the February 5th deadline, affirming his value to the team.
Barkley Acknowledges Brooks’ Contributions Despite Doubts About All-Star Selection
Barkley gave Brooks credit for his team’s progress, stating,
“Dillon Brooks deserves a lot of credit to what’s happening in Phoenix.”
He added,
“I said, ‘Hey, I hope he makes it.’ I don’t think he’s gonna make it, but I wanted people to know I appreciate what he’s bringing to the table.”
Implications for Brooks and the Suns Moving Forward
Brooks’ steady improvement and impact on the court have raised his profile within the league as a key contributor for the Suns. His recognition by a respected voice like Charles Barkley highlights his growing reputation in the NBA. As Boston works through injuries and prepares for the postseason push, Brooks’ performance and postseason prospects will remain under close observation by fans and analysts alike.
“I put Dillon Brooks [on my all-star reserves team]… I think we’re going to announce it tomorrow, probably”
Barkley doesn’t have an official All-Star vote, but before he announces on ESPN soon, he told @TermineRadio and @JumpShot8 he’s going to pick Dillon Brooks as a reserve. pic.twitter.com/e4VcKlugTM
— SiriusXM NBA Radio (@SiriusXMNBA) January 28, 2026
