The 2024-25 NBA season proved challenging for Devin Booker and the Phoenix Suns. Despite having a roster featuring future Hall of Famer Kevin Durant and expectations set by new head coach Mike Budenholzer, the team struggled to find cohesion. Budenholzer replaced Frank Vogel, marking the Suns’ third coaching change in three years during the Durant era. The combination of star players Booker, Durant, and the burdensome contract of Bradley Beal failed to deliver results, as the Suns finished the season 10 games below .500 and missed the playoffs for the first time in four years for Booker.
Turnaround Led by Reconfigured Lineup and Key Contributors
Moving into the 2025-26 season, the Suns have seen a remarkable turnaround. With adjustments to the roster, Phoenix is performing much better despite missing Jalen Green for most of the season. Dillon Brooks, acquired from the Houston Rockets as part of the trade involving Kevin Durant, has emerged as a crucial piece in this revival. His impact on the team’s culture and performance has been especially notable.
Devin Booker Recognizes Dillon Brooks’ Dedication and Growth
Dillon Brooks is enjoying the best season of his career, elevating the Suns’ defense from the 28th rank league-wide last year to the top 10 this season. Known as “The Villain,” Brooks is averaging a career-high 21.1 points per game while shooting an impressive 44.6% from the field. His efforts have drawn attention from prominent voices like former Suns MVP Charles Barkley and analyst Kenny “The Jet” Smith, who have publicly acknowledged his improvement.
Booker, who recently secured his fifth All-Star selection, praised Brooks during a Suns broadcast, expressing surprise at Brooks’ offensive development.
“You could tell he’s been working on his game,”
Booker said. When asked if he was surprised by Brooks’ offensive strides, Booker reflected,
“I was surprised in the summer when I saw his expansive offensive repertoire.”
Work Ethic as the Driving Force Behind Brooks’ Success
Booker highlighted the relentless effort Brooks puts into refining his skills. “He takes his craft seriously,” Booker noted.
“Him and his trainer spend countless hours in the gym, and it’s on display in front of the team. You know, he’s usually the first one in there, one of the last to leave. You know, he always has that mindset. He brings that competitive spirit to every game.”
Booker pointed out that what fans and teammates witness is a direct reflection of Brooks’ dedication, as he exemplified this by making a jump shot during the conversation.
Leadership and Mutual Respect Fueling Suns’ Revival
The mutual respect between Booker and Brooks has been instrumental in guiding the Suns this season. Both have embraced their roles as primary scorers and team leaders, fostering a positive and motivated environment on the court. Although Brooks was not selected for his first All-Star nod this season, his influence on the team is significant.
Brooks continues to challenge himself to improve, and his hard work is inspiring the rest of the roster. This collective effort is helping Phoenix sustain the momentum of their revival, positioning them well for potential success moving forward.
