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<title type="text">Bright Side Of The Sun</title>
<subtitle type="text">Your best source for quality Phoenix Suns news, rumors, analysis, stats and scores from the fan perspective.</subtitle>
<updated>2025-10-13T18:00:50+00:00</updated>
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<entry>
<author>
<name>John Voita</name>
</author>
<title type="html"><![CDATA[Jordan Goodwin or Jared Butler: Who’s making the stronger case for the Suns?]]></title>
<link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/suns-roster/90525/preseason-jordan-goodwin-jared-butler-roster-battle-third-point-guard-decisio" />
<id>https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/?p=90525</id>
<updated>2025-10-13T14:00:50-04:00</updated>
<published>2025-10-13T19:00:00-04:00</published>
<category scheme="https://www.brightsideofthesun.com" term="Suns Roster" />
<summary type="html"><![CDATA[There’s a quiet battle unfolding within the Phoenix Suns, one that won’t shape headlines but could shape the margins of the roster. Through three preseason games, the picture is beginning to take form, and we’re starting to see who might emerge from it. The contest? Backup to the backup point guard. The competitors? Jordan Goodwin […]]]></summary>
<content type="html">
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<img alt="" data-caption="" data-portal-copyright="" data-has-syndication-rights="1" src="https://platform.brightsideofthesun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/45/2025/10/gettyimages-2240284458.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&crop=0,0,100,100" />
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There’s a quiet battle unfolding within the Phoenix Suns, one that won’t shape headlines but could shape the margins of the roster. Through three preseason games, the picture is beginning to take form, and we’re starting to see who might emerge from it. 
The contest? Backup to the backup point guard. The competitors? Jordan Goodwin and Jared Butler.
While bigger names lingered in free agency over the summer, the Suns went a different direction. They opted for players who grind, who have something to prove. Jordan Goodwin <a href="https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/2025/7/23/24473308/phoenix-suns-sign-jordan-goodwin-backup-point-guard-lakers-waiver-training-camp-roster">arrived via waivers</a>, cut loose by the Los Angeles Lakers to make room for Marcus Smart. His contract isn’t fully guaranteed until January 7, 2026; a ticking clock that adds both pressure and purpose.
Across from him stands Jared Butler, <a href="https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/2025/7/23/24473363/phoenix-suns-sign-jared-butler-backcourt-depth-training-camp-competition-jordan-goodwin">brought in on a training camp and Exhibit 10</a> deal after a solid stint with the Philadelphia 76ers, where he held his own filling gaps left by injury.
Both have cases worth making, paths worth believing in. And through three preseason games, we’re starting to see their stories diverge. Each possession, each decision, reveals which one might earn that coveted final seat on the bench.
Let’s stack ‘em up and see where we’re at through 3 games.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-none">Minutes: Edge Butler</h3>
You never really know what you have until you give a player a chance to show it. Through three preseason games, Jared Butler has been the one getting that chance, at least a little more often. He’s averaging 16.6 minutes per game compared to Jordan Goodwin’s 13.0, and based on the rotation patterns, Butler is consistently the first one off the bench.
There are two ways to read that. 
Maybe the coaching staff believes Goodwin has the edge, so they’re giving Butler an extended look, a chance to flash before the final cuts. Or maybe it’s the opposite. Butler has impressed early, and they’re testing how he holds up alongside players who are actually part of the regular rotation.
Either way, this is the baseline. When we look at the numbers, keep in mind: Butler’s had a slightly longer runway to make his case.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-none">Points: Edge Goodwin</h3>
It’s a slim margin, but Jared Butler is edging out Jordan Goodwin in total points. 27 to 26 through three games. One point. Barely a whisper of separation, but enough to keep the competition alive.
When you dig a little deeper, however, you find that Goodwin is the primary scorer on the unit in which he plays, some of which include Jared Butler. While on the court, Butler has scored 27.6% of the team’s points. Goodwin? 30.6%, the most of any player on the team.
<img src="https://platform.brightsideofthesun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/45/2025/10/gettyimages-2240605256.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&crop=0,27.775,100,44.45" alt="" title="" data-has-syndication-rights="1" data-caption="" data-portal-copyright="" />
<h3 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-none">Efficiency: Edge Goodwin</h3>
If you shift the lens from volume to efficiency, the picture begins to tilt in Jordan Goodwin’s favor. 
Butler may have the slight edge in total points, but he’s earning them the hard way. 10-of-26 from the field (38.5%) and a rough 1-of-8 from deep (12.5%). Not exactly the kind of line that inspires confidence in a guard fighting for minutes. Granted, no one’s expecting the backup-to-the-backup point guard to come in and light the nets on fire, but it wouldn’t hurt to see a few more clean makes.
Goodwin, meanwhile, has been sharper and more composed. 
He’s shooting 8-of-19 overall (42.1%) and 4-of-11 from three (36.4%). The shots look intentional and rhythmic, not forced. He’s had moments that actually mattered, too, like the clutch bucket that sealed the <a href="https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/suns-scores-results/90393/suns-nets-132-127-overtime-recap-china-jordan-goodwin-khaman-maluach-rasheer-fleming-highlights">Suns’ second preseason win over Brooklyn</a>. 
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-dnt="true">Jordan Goodwin OT dagger with ALL of the reaxs! SUNS UP ☄️ <a href="https://t.co/ongkWXuDqO">pic.twitter.com/ongkWXuDqO</a>— Phoenix Suns (@Suns) <a href="https://twitter.com/Suns/status/1976665731489284602?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 10, 2025</a></blockquote>
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-none">Playmaking: Edge Butler</h3>
If you’re playing the backup to the backup point guard spot, playmaking matters. Maybe not in volume, but definitely in tone. You’re not being asked to orchestrate the offense night after night, but you are expected to keep the wheels turning. The goal is simple: don’t derail the system, and if you can, give it a little push.
When looking at the assist-to-turnover ratio, the numbers are even. Both sit at 1.0. Butler has eight assists and eight turnovers. Goodwin, three and three. 
On paper, it’s a wash. But context gives Butler a slight edge. He’s the one initiating more sets, probing for openings, trying to create instead of simply maintaining order. The turnovers reflect the risk that comes with responsibility, a byproduct of being entrusted with the ball and doing something with it.
So while neither has been dazzling, Butler gets the nod here. He’s not steering the ship recklessly, but he’s at least trying to move it forward.
<img src="https://platform.brightsideofthesun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/45/2025/10/gettyimages-2240212460.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&crop=0,23.334283813326,100,53.331432373349" alt="" title="" data-has-syndication-rights="1" data-caption="" data-portal-copyright="" />
<h3 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-none">Defensive Impact: Edge Goodwin</h3>
Let’s start with the basics. The counting stats. 
Jared Butler and Jordan Goodwin each have six steals to their name. Butler holds a slight edge in blocks, two to one, though that’s hardly a deciding factor. If you want to dig a little deeper, defensive rating offers another layer, though it’s an imperfect one. The number reflects more of the unit’s collective defense than any single player’s effort. Still, it’s worth noting: Butler sits at 103.7, while Goodwin comes in lower — and better — at 97.7. Butler’s defensive win share is .068, whereas Goodwin is at .080.
Both players have made their mark defensively, which is what makes this particular roster battle so compelling. Whoever wins this job won’t be tasked with running the offense or racking up points. Their purpose is disruption. Energy. Pressure. The kind of effort that makes opponents rethink their dribble before half court.
That’s where the difference shows. Butler’s defense has been fiery but a bit reckless, committing nine fouls in three games. Goodwin, meanwhile, has fouled only four times. Jordan has been disciplined, measured, and still aggressive. 
Taking everything into account, the edge goes to Goodwin. Not because he’s flashier, but because he’s smarter. He’s a defender who knows when to bite and when to wait.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-dnt="true">Fun blindside steal here from Jordan Goodwin Goody Mobb™️ <a href="https://t.co/eoMW1xqO8z">pic.twitter.com/eoMW1xqO8z</a>— Stephen PridGeon-Garner 🏁 (@StephenPG3) <a href="https://twitter.com/StephenPG3/status/1977361040389099601?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 12, 2025</a></blockquote>
</div></figure>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-none">The Eye Test: Edge Goodwin</h3>
I came into this preseason with an open mind about the Jared Butler vs. Jordan Goodwin competition. 
Honestly, I was excited to see what Butler could bring. Last season, he averaged 11.5 points in 28 games for the 76ers while filling in for Tyrese Maxey. Not bad production for a guy fighting for a roster spot. And though his overall shooting splits weren’t eye-popping, he did hit 35.2% from deep, which hinted at some offensive upside that could translate.
But after watching every minute of the preseason so far, it’s Goodwin who stands out. He’s the one who pops off the screen, not because he’s lighting it up offensively (though he’s capable), but because of how he defends. That’s where the real separation lies. For these two, the key to securing that final guard spot isn’t flashy scoring or fancy passing. It’s playing smart defense.
Butler is talented, but his defensive approach feels more chaotic. He’s aggressive to a fault, playing to tight and taking risks that sometimes leave his teammates scrambling behind him. Goodwin, on the other hand, plays under control. He dictates tempo on both ends, picking his spots without compromising positioning or rhythm.
From the eye test alone, Goodwin gets the edge. He looks like the steadier, more reliable piece. The kind of player you trust to make the right play instead of forcing the risky one.
<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />
What do you think? What have you seen so far from Jared Butler and Jordan Goodwin this preseason? Who’s earned that edge in your eyes?
Cast your vote in the poll and drop your thoughts in the comments below. 
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-polldaddy wp-block-embed-polldaddy"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="iframely-embed"><div class="iframely-responsive"><a href="https://poll.fm/16150646" data-iframely-url="https://cdn.iframe.ly/api/iframe?maxheight=750&url=https%3A%2F%2Fpoll.fm%2F16150646&key=a95589c51263af39f0de8ef8737db4f3"></a></div></div>
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]]>
</content>
</entry>
<entry>
<author>
<name>John Voita</name>
</author>
<title type="html"><![CDATA[The Suns rediscovered what fun feels like and it started with a toy named Labubu]]></title>
<link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/suns-news/90520/devin-booker-dillon-brooks-labubu-laughter-vibes-team-culture-nba-preseason-china" />
<id>https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/?p=90520</id>
<updated>2025-10-13T12:53:33-04:00</updated>
<published>2025-10-13T15:00:00-04:00</published>
<category scheme="https://www.brightsideofthesun.com" term="Suns News" />
<summary type="html"><![CDATA[How much do you know about Labubus? Up until Sunday, I hadn’t heard of them either. Some kind of collectible plush creature, the kind that lives in the same strange cultural corner as Beanie Babies or Funko Pops. One of those modern obsessions that makes you question where nostalgia ends and consumer hypnosis begins. But […]]]></summary>
<content type="html">
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<img alt="" data-caption="" data-portal-copyright="" data-has-syndication-rights="1" src="https://platform.brightsideofthesun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/45/2025/10/gettyimages-2240580179.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&crop=0,0,100,100" />
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How much do you know about Labubus? Up until Sunday, I hadn’t heard of them either. Some kind of collectible plush creature, the kind that lives in the same strange cultural corner as Beanie Babies or Funko Pops. One of those modern obsessions that makes you question where nostalgia ends and consumer hypnosis begins.
But it was during a conversation about Labubus, of all things, that something meaningful happened for the Phoenix Suns. A flicker of life. A reminder that “vibes,” as intangible and overused as that word has become, might finally be finding their way back to this team.
You can’t define vibes, but you know when they’re missing. For two seasons, they’ve been gone, buried under transactional basketball and the kind of tension that turns joy into obligation. When players clock in like accountants instead of artists, the game loses its heartbeat.
Then came Sunday in China. After the <a href="https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/suns-scores-results/90478/game-recap-suns-lead-early-before-late-111-109-collapse-against-nets">Suns dropped their final preseason game in China to the Brooklyn Nets</a>, Devin Booker and Dillon Brooks sat side by side at the postgame podium. Same setup we’ve seen before. Booker next to Chris Paul, Booker next to Kevin Durant. But this one felt different.
With Paul, you could sense mutual respect, even admiration. The young star absorbing wisdom from the veteran sage. Their exchanges had texture. They were two minds speaking the same basketball language. When it was Durant beside him, the dynamic shifted. It was corporate, efficient, clinical. “Let’s answer the questions and move on.” You could feel it on the court, too. Two assassins sharing the same mission, but not the same spirit.
On Sunday, it was Dillon Brooks. The NBA’s chaos merchant. The guy who thrives on noise. When a reporter lobbed an unexpected question their way — something light, something human — both players cracked. The moment didn’t belong to the game, or the stats, or the brand. It belonged to the people behind the jerseys.
“I notice that you carry a Labubu,” the reporter began the question, referring to the plush toy. Brooks began to smile as the question unfolded. Booker did as well. Through broken English, she continued, “Did you get a chance to a store? To storage those Labubu’s because it’s still very trending?”
“Yeah,” Brooks responded, as laughter spread throughout the press room. “I like the Labubu’s. I got like four of them. I like the trend. It’s cool and…um…it’s cute.”
Booker couldn’t contain himself. The mask slipped, the stoic veneer cracked, and laughter poured out of him. It was genuine, unfiltered, the kind that makes you forget there’s a room full of cameras. It was the rarest kind of moment for him. The silent assassin broke character, the killer smiled mid-hunt. Brooks laughed right along with him, like two conspirators caught in the act. 
The reporter continued.
“Devin, I know you’re a very trending guy. You probably heard of Labubu, so how do you make comments on Dillon’s Labubu taste?” 
Brooks responded, noting that, “I’m gonna get him one for his birthday.” Booker will be 29 on October 30.
The laughter continued as Booker responded to the question. “I think they’re cute.” He turned to his teammate and they jovially laughed. 
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-dnt="true">The perfect teammate birthday gift 🎁 Dillon and Book got asked about labubu’s postgame 😂 <a href="https://t.co/kto2TsEOgH">pic.twitter.com/kto2TsEOgH</a>— Phoenix Suns (@Suns) <a href="https://twitter.com/Suns/status/1977441034172064086?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 12, 2025</a></blockquote>
</div></figure>
For a few seconds, there were no headlines, no expectations, no brand management. Just two hoopers sharing a laugh halfway across the world. And maybe that’s where it starts again. Not with a scheme or a stat, but with a spark. A reminder that even in a game obsessed with control, the best moments are the ones that slip through it.
The Suns might’ve lost the game. But for the first time in a while, it felt like they found something they’ve been missing. The kind of connection that doesn’t show up on a box score but can change everything that follows.
Will that press conference translate to wins? No. But it does offer something far rarer, a glimpse behind the curtain, and a reminder that basketball, at its core, is supposed to be fun. Yes, the NBA is a business. Contracts expire. Trades happen. Players become assets. But strip all that away, and what’s left is still human. The connection, the laughter, the shared sense of purpose that can’t be quantified but always shows up in how a team plays.
The Suns have been missing that. Desperately. You can trace the blame wherever you’d like, whether it be chemistry, leadership, or timing. But the past is written. What matters now is what’s being rewritten.
Seeing Booker and Brooks laugh over something as small and ridiculous as a toy might seem meaningless. Maybe it is. Maybe it’ll vanish as soon as the first losing streak rolls through. But for a fleeting moment, it felt like a pulse, like the beginning of something that’s been missing. A spark of joy. A sign that while this team may not have turned the corner talent-wise, they might be inching their way toward something even more valuable. Culture.
]]>
</content>
</entry>
<entry>
<author>
<name>Pano</name>
</author>
<title type="html"><![CDATA[The NBA’s latest GM survey says a lot about hype and not much about truth]]></title>
<link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/suns-news/90473/nba-gm-survey-2025-devin-booker-shooting-guard-ranking-snub-reaction-analysis" />
<id>https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/?p=90473</id>
<updated>2025-10-12T11:12:07-04:00</updated>
<published>2025-10-13T08:00:00-04:00</published>
<category scheme="https://www.brightsideofthesun.com" term="Suns News" />
<summary type="html"><![CDATA[Every year before the NBA season kicks off, ESPN publishes its annual survey of General Managers. It includes the usual questions: who will win the next Finals? Which team made the best moves this summer? Who is the most athletic player? I’ve never held this type of content in high regard, but it does have […]]]></summary>
<content type="html">
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<img alt="" data-caption="" data-portal-copyright="" data-has-syndication-rights="1" src="https://platform.brightsideofthesun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/45/2025/10/gettyimages-2239486940.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&crop=0,0,100,100" />
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Every year before the NBA season kicks off, ESPN publishes its annual survey of General Managers. It includes the usual questions: who will win the next Finals? Which team made the best moves this summer? Who is the most athletic player?
I’ve never held this type of content in high regard, but it does have one merit: it sparks debate and interaction. In recent days, small worlds have emerged where everyone defends their take on “the most versatile defensive player” or “who has the best leadership.”
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-dnt="true">🚨 The 2025-26 GM Survey is HERE 🚨 All 30 NBA GMs made their predictions for 2025-26 and beyond! See their NBA Finals pick and the results for all 49 questions, NOW on the NBA App! ➡️ <a href="https://t.co/PTpK2rQrZv">https://t.co/PTpK2rQrZv</a> <a href="https://t.co/F9qqGhPPY8">pic.twitter.com/F9qqGhPPY8</a>— NBA (@NBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBA/status/1976325257691902304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 9, 2025</a></blockquote>
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Sports debates have this precious quality — enjoyable when they go your way, irritating when they don’t — and this type of survey is no exception. One question draws positive reactions, another frustrates, and it drives conversation.
Most of the topics were interesting, but there was one that really bothered me. Those who have seen the survey already know which one I’m talking about: the question about the best shooting guard in the NBA.
Here are the five players who received the most votes heading into the new season: Anthony Edwards (70%), Donovan Mitchell (13%), Luka Doncic and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (7% each), and Stephen Curry (3%).
So yes, Devin Booker isn’t on this list. Being behind AntMan and Dono, I can accept; that ranking reflects trends more than actual on-court performance or a player’s true level. Edwards is the future American face of the league, riding a hype wave, charismatic, and with immense potential. Mitchell had a full season in Cleveland and remains a respected and recognized player in the NBA sphere.
But seeing Booker ranked below three players that the NBA itself classifies as point guards? That stings. It reinforces my view that this type of content shouldn’t be taken too seriously. It’s still entertaining content, with some polls worth paying attention to.
Even though the Suns didn’t come out of last season with memorable results for the right reasons, our shooting guard at least deserved a mention. He’s still one of the league’s top offensive talents, a lethal weapon any team would dream of having.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-dnt="true">Devin Booker will have the workload of a full-fledged offensive engine this year… Over time he's evolved as a playmaker. A lot of pressure to completely run the show, but a really exciting opportunity to watch him scale his game up. 0.94 PPP on 7.4 P&R poss/g last season. <a href="https://t.co/VJWSIgd1e9">https://t.co/VJWSIgd1e9</a> <a href="https://t.co/8M9ZFziWFP">pic.twitter.com/8M9ZFziWFP</a>— NBA University (@NBA_University) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBA_University/status/1976004072097583545?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 8, 2025</a></blockquote>
</div></figure>
This ranking seems less like an objective evaluation and more like a mix of fanfiction and popularity. It tells a story, yes, but not the story of the current reality. It highlights perception, current narratives, and sometimes how hype can overshadow the facts. 
And for a Suns and Booker fan, it’s hard to swallow. If this survey can give him even more motivation heading into the season, we’re not complaining.
]]>
</content>
</entry>
<entry>
<author>
<name>John Voita</name>
</author>
<title type="html"><![CDATA[Game Recap: Suns lead early before late 111–109 collapse against Nets]]></title>
<link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/suns-scores-results/90478/game-recap-suns-lead-early-before-late-111-109-collapse-against-nets" />
<id>https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/?p=90478</id>
<updated>2025-10-12T11:08:24-04:00</updated>
<published>2025-10-12T11:08:24-04:00</published>
<category scheme="https://www.brightsideofthesun.com" term="Suns Scores" />
<summary type="html"><![CDATA[The Phoenix Suns wrapped up their final game in China early Sunday morning, and for most of the night, they looked poised to leave with two wins in hand. Then came the fourth quarter. The rhythm that had carried them faltered, and the Brooklyn Nets seized control, outscoring the Suns 30–21 to steal a 111–109 […]]]></summary>
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<img alt="" data-caption="" data-portal-copyright="" data-has-syndication-rights="1" src="https://platform.brightsideofthesun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/45/2025/10/gettyimages-2239682233.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&crop=0,0,100,100" />
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The Phoenix Suns wrapped up their final game in China early Sunday morning, and for most of the night, they looked poised to leave with two wins in hand. Then came the fourth quarter. The rhythm that had carried them faltered, and the Brooklyn Nets seized control, outscoring the Suns 30–21 to steal a 111–109 victory.
Devin Booker set the tone early, pouring in 11 of his 18 points in the first quarter, a sharp contrast to his slow-burn start in the previous matchup. It was a confident, assertive showing, the kind that reminds you why he’s the anchor of this team. He was 3-of-5 from deep, which pushes his preseason three-point percentage to 43.8%.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-dnt="true">Book is heating up! 🔥 Starts the game 3/3 from beyond the arc <a href="https://t.co/YXv9lt2Rxq">pic.twitter.com/YXv9lt2Rxq</a>— Phoenix Suns (@Suns) <a href="https://twitter.com/Suns/status/1977338465198203014?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 12, 2025</a></blockquote>
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Dillon Brooks did Dillon Brooks things, managing 12 points before fouling out in the third quarter. Oso Ighodaro matched him with 12 of his own, while Nick Richards provided 11 off the bench, giving Phoenix productive minutes in the frontcourt.It wasn’t the ending they wanted, but it was the kind of game that reveals where the edges still need sharpening.
It was a game that felt well within the Phoenix Suns’ grasp. At least for a while. They built a 15-point lead behind crisp ball movement and confident three-point shooting. By halftime, though, that edge had thinned to 51–49, a reminder that control in basketball is rarely permanent.
The Suns caught fire again in the third, dropping 37 points and reasserting their rhythm. But as the fourth quarter unfolded, with minutes handed to rookies and newcomers, including the debut of Koby Brea, the game slipped through their fingers. A late foul by David Duke Jr. on a Tyrese Martin three-point attempt cracked the door open, and Brooklyn stepped right through it.
It wasn’t a loss that stings, but one that teaches. old the story.
<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Up Next</h2>
The Suns now head home on a 12-hour flight back to Phoenix before turning their attention to Tuesday’s matchup against the Los Angeles Lakers. A long trip behind them, a familiar rivalry ahead. 
]]>
</content>
</entry>
<entry>
<author>
<name>Matthew Lissy</name>
</author>
<author>
<name>John Voita</name>
</author>
<title type="html"><![CDATA[Suns JAM Session Podcast: Suns vs. Nets Preseason Post Game Pod]]></title>
<link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/suns-jam/90496/suns-jam-session-podcast-suns-vs-nets-preseason-post-game-pod" />
<id>https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/90496/suns-jam-session-podcast-suns-vs-nets-preseason-post-game-pod</id>
<updated>2025-10-12T09:41:39-04:00</updated>
<published>2025-10-12T09:41:39-04:00</published>
<category scheme="https://www.brightsideofthesun.com" term="Suns JAM Session" /><category scheme="https://www.brightsideofthesun.com" term="Suns Podcasts" />
<summary type="html"><![CDATA[It’s even earlier than last game, but that’s not stopping us! Join John for another preseason postgamer! Watch it right here! Listen to the latest podcast episode of the Suns JAM Session Podcast below. Stay up to date on every episode, subscribe to the pod on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, YouTube Podcasts, Amazon Music, Podbean, Castbox. Please subscribe, rate, and review.]]></summary>
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<![CDATA[
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<img alt="" data-caption="" data-portal-copyright="" data-has-syndication-rights="1" src="https://platform.brightsideofthesun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/45/2025/10/Pacific.png?quality=90&strip=all&crop=0,0,100,100" />
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It’s even earlier than last game, but that’s not stopping us! Join John for another preseason postgamer!
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Click the SUBSCRIBE button.</li>
<li>Click the BELL to turn on notifications.</li>
</ul>
Watch it right here!
<div class="youtube-embed"><iframe title="Suns vs. Nets Preseason Post Game Pod" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/7IvX5BrlZM8?rel=0" allowfullscreen allow="accelerometer *; clipboard-write *; encrypted-media *; gyroscope *; picture-in-picture *; web-share *;"></iframe></div>
<hr class="wp-block-separator has-css-opacity" />
Listen to the latest podcast episode of the Suns JAM Session Podcast below. Stay up to date on every episode, subscribe to the pod on <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/suns-jam-session-podcast/id1577820558">Apple</a>, <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/4H743ZJUZQ4ggG7dkmMAhv">Spotify</a>, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@SunsJAM">YouTube</a>, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@SunsJAM/podcasts">YouTube Podcasts</a>,<a href="https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c8cf7075-d4cf-4048-aca2-183064c37c32/suns-jam-session-podcast"> Amazon Music</a>, <a href="https://www.podbean.com/podcast-detail/kecv8-206812/Suns-JAM-Session-Podcast">Podbean</a>, <a href="https://castbox.fm/channel/id2025260?country=us">Castbox</a>.
<iframe src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/show/4H743ZJUZQ4ggG7dkmMAhv?utm_source=generator&theme=0" width="100%" height="152" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe>
Please subscribe, rate, and review.
]]>
</content>
</entry>
<entry>
<author>
<name>Brandon Duenas</name>
</author>
<title type="html"><![CDATA[Open Thread: Suns vs. Nets (Round 2)]]></title>
<link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/suns-game-threads/90448/open-thread-suns-vs-nets-round-2" />
<id>https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/?p=90448</id>
<updated>2025-10-11T12:26:03-04:00</updated>
<published>2025-10-12T06:00:00-04:00</published>
<category scheme="https://www.brightsideofthesun.com" term="Suns Game Threads" />
<summary type="html"><![CDATA[Let’s do it all over again! Set your alarms, or don’t forget to press record. Join us for the early bird special in China.]]></summary>
<content type="html">
<![CDATA[
<figure>
<img alt="" data-caption="" data-portal-copyright="" data-has-syndication-rights="1" src="https://platform.brightsideofthesun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/45/2025/10/gettyimages-2240285436.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&crop=0,0,100,100" />
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Let’s do it all over again! Set your alarms, or don’t forget to press record. 
Join us for the early bird special in China.
<img src="https://platform.brightsideofthesun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/45/2025/10/gettyimages-2239682233.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&crop=0,0.0051361068310243,100,99.989727786338" alt="" title="" data-has-syndication-rights="1" data-caption="MACAU, CHINA - OCTOBER 10: Devin Booker #1 of the Phoenix Suns drives to the basket during the game against the Brooklyn Nets as part of 2025 NBA Global Games China at Venetian Arena on October 10, 2025 in Macau, China. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE (Photo by Juan Ocampo/NBAE via Getty Images)" data-portal-copyright="" />
]]>
</content>
</entry>
<entry>
<author>
<name>Brandon Duenas</name>
</author>
<title type="html"><![CDATA[Game Preview: Suns clash with the Nets for “China Games” finale]]></title>
<link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/suns-game-previews/90455/game-preview-suns-clash-with-the-nets-for-china-games-finale" />
<id>https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/?p=90455</id>
<updated>2025-10-11T21:28:17-04:00</updated>
<published>2025-10-11T22:30:00-04:00</published>
<category scheme="https://www.brightsideofthesun.com" term="Suns Game Previews" />
<summary type="html"><![CDATA[When: 4:00 am Arizona Time Where: Venetian Arena, Macao, China Watch: NBA TV The Phoenix Suns traveled over 7,000 miles across the world to play the Brooklyn Nets twice in Macao, China, at Venetian Arena. This is the second of two contests after the Suns won an overtime thriller by the score of 132-127. As […]]]></summary>
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<![CDATA[
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When: 4:00 am Arizona Time
Where: Venetian Arena, Macao, China
Watch: NBA TV
<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />
The Phoenix Suns traveled over 7,000 miles across the world to play the Brooklyn Nets twice in Macao, China, at Venetian Arena. This is the second of two contests after the Suns won an overtime thriller by the score of 132-127. 
As Kevin stated in the last preview, remember to set your alarms or your DVR, as this game tips off at 4 a.m. Arizona time. If you’re up at 4 a.m. Arizona time to watch this, you’re either an insomniac, a diehard, or both…but either way, the Suns are back for Game 2 of their China series against the Brooklyn Nets. After an encouraging opener against the Lakers that showed real flashes of identity, this matchup is another test of whether Phoenix’s new culture is starting to take hold. Preseason or not.
The Suns enter their third preseason game with a pristine 2-0 record. They have certainly looked connected despite not having Jalen Green or Mark Williams for either game, two of their top 4 players. 
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-dnt="true">Vibes were UP at <a href="https://twitter.com/NBA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NBA</a> China Fan Day 2025 🤩 <a href="https://t.co/VQplcc7FFS">pic.twitter.com/VQplcc7FFS</a>— Phoenix Suns (@Suns) <a href="https://twitter.com/Suns/status/1977066192881041597?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 11, 2025</a></blockquote>
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Phoenix recovered from a slow start in the first contest to rally back for an overtime win against Brooklyn. They allowed 39 points in the first quarter, trailing by 10 heading into the 2nd quarter. 
The Suns will look for a stronger start and more defensive energy early, although part of their struggles last game were due to Brooklyn quite literally not missing a shot early on. It was an eventful first game, with plenty of big celebrity names and the international spotlight shining on the Suns. 
I doubt either of these teams focuses on making adjustments for each other. Most of the goal of preseason is about perfecting your internal goals and correcting any mistakes ahead of the games that count. 
Let’s see what they can do in Round 2.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Probable Starters</h3>
(Same as Game 1, barring late changes/injuries)
SUNS
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Oso Ighodaro</li>
<li>Ryan Dunn</li>
<li>Dillon Brooks</li>
<li>Grayson Allen</li>
<li>Devin Booker </li>
</ul>
NETS
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Nic Claxton</li>
<li>Michael Porter Jr.</li>
<li>Terance Mann</li>
<li>Cam Thomas</li>
<li>Noaln Traore</li>
</ul>
Injury Report Suns
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Mark Williams — OUT</li>
<li>Jalen Green — DAY TO DAY</li>
</ul>
Nets
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Egior Demin — DAY TO DAY</li>
<li>Drake Powell — DAY TO DAY</li>
<li>Haywood Highsmith — DAY TO DAY</li>
</ul>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-none">What to Watch</h2>
Strong Start?
After a disjointed, slow first half where Phoenix looked like the team that hit snooze on its alarm (Brooklyn opened 10-for-10 from the field and jumped out to a 26-8 lead), the Suns’ youth and bench energy saved the morning.
The Suns battled back from a 12-point halftime deficit, dominating the third quarter 30–13 to completely flip the momentum. 
Jordan Goodwin led the Suns with 19 points in 18 minutes, including the dagger three in overtime, while Devin Booker and Dillon Brooks each added 18. But this game wasn’t about star power. It was about the foundation being laid beneath it.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-dnt="true">Jordan Goodwin OT dagger with ALL of the reaxs! SUNS UP ☄️ <a href="https://t.co/ongkWXuDqO">pic.twitter.com/ongkWXuDqO</a>— Phoenix Suns (@Suns) <a href="https://twitter.com/Suns/status/1976665731489284602?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 10, 2025</a></blockquote>
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Rookie Success
We are all likely hoping to see more action from the rookies in this contest. 
Rasheer Fleming and Khaman Maluach were two of the biggest bright spots for Phoenix. Their energy, defense, and athleticism in the fourth quarter and overtime completely changed the game’s feel. Fleming’s instincts as a cutter and shot blocker stood out, while Maluach’s footwork and passing vision at his age continue to make him one of the most fascinating long-term projects on this roster.
“Man Man” and Rasheer both getting 25+ minutes in this one would be ideal. We’ll see how Jordan Ott handles the rotation. Unleash the rooks! 
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-dnt="true">Khaman Maluach, who just turned 19 last month, is very much still growing into his 7’1”, 250 LB frame But he’s already showcasing the flashes of physicality you want out of a big man that you invested top-10 draft capital into The Suns will be patient with his development, but… <a href="https://t.co/xfNir9pDLk">pic.twitter.com/xfNir9pDLk</a>— Point Made Basketball (@pointmadebball) <a href="https://twitter.com/pointmadebball/status/1976773759655985457?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 10, 2025</a></blockquote>
</div></figure>
Even Collin Gillespie, though somewhat quiet in the box score, showed flashes of exactly the kind of stabilizing, connective guard Jordan Ott wants in his system, someone who can defend, move the ball, and keep the pace steady. These are the kinds of games where he can really start to carve out his spot in the rotation.
Offensively, there’s still a lot to figure out. The starters never found much rhythm, shooting 44 percent from the field and missing 31 of 42 threes. 
But the resilience was hard to ignore. Holding Brooklyn to 13 points in the third quarter, erasing a double-digit halftime deficit, and finishing the job in overtime shows the kind of grit and buy-in this new Suns group is trying to build.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-none">Prediction </h2>
Who knows what the rotations look like in this one. I just want to see continued heart and fight and some promising stretches from the rooks. 
Suns win again, 124-121. 
We shall see!
]]>
</content>
</entry>
<entry>
<author>
<name>Bruce Veliz</name>
</author>
<title type="html"><![CDATA[Whose debut for the Suns is more important for their team success?]]></title>
<link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/suns-analysis/90363/suns-jalen-green-mark-williams-preseason-debut-injury-update-impact-analysis-2025" />
<id>https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/?p=90363</id>
<updated>2025-10-11T12:53:56-04:00</updated>
<published>2025-10-11T20:00:00-04:00</published>
<category scheme="https://www.brightsideofthesun.com" term="Suns Analysis" />
<summary type="html"><![CDATA[Two new faces have arrived in the Valley, but they have yet to suit up, despite high expectations surrounding their names. Who are more eyes on and why does that matter? The Phoenix Suns tipped off their preseason with a big victory over the Los Angeles Lakers and embarked on their next adventure to China […]]]></summary>
<content type="html">
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<img alt="" data-caption="" data-portal-copyright="" data-has-syndication-rights="1" src="https://platform.brightsideofthesun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/45/2025/10/gettyimages-2237245822.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&crop=0,0,100,100" />
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Two new faces have arrived in the Valley, but they have yet to suit up, despite high expectations surrounding their names. Who are more eyes on and why does that matter?
The Phoenix Suns tipped off their preseason with a big victory over the Los Angeles Lakers and embarked on their next adventure to China to play the Brooklyn Nets. In the first game, we saw a majority of the new faces suit up and show out representing the Valley, but two remain unseen. 
These two are Jalen Green and Mark Williams, who are both dealing with injuries to start the year. This is not great for the Suns, as they are two of the newer faces about whom everyone already has uncertainties, with Green being a similar player and position to Suns’ star player Devin Booker, and Williams having injury concerns throughout his career.
Seemingly, this is not a good start for either player, but whose debut is more integral to the team’s success and functionality? Is it the secondary scorer in Green to finally have a consistent shooting season, where he can excel in areas the Suns lack on offense, or will he be a stagnant scorer, as his past has shown? Is Mark Williams finally going to show his dominance as a double-double machine, or will injuries once again limit his potential in a contract year?
These are all questions that matter and will weigh into who needs to be more impactful in their inaugural year here in the Valley, and for that to ensure them a long-term stay.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">What do they have to prove?</h3>
Jalen Green has to prove that he can consistently score and be effective at cutting to the basket. The Suns were all about playmaking and setting up three-pointers last season, which showed that limited movement occurred off the ball. This was a recipe for disaster, and new head coach Jordan Ott wants to see that change. Jalen Green has been effective at scoring near the basket and working off the ball to cut and receive back-door passes for easy layups.
Here is a shot chart of Jalen Green’s last year with the Houston Rockets, courtesy of 3stepsbasket. Highlighted is his shooting percentage in each area, and the size of the circle dictates the preference of the shot. As you can see, not only does he have his highest percentage at 54% at the rim, but also that the circle is the largest of them all, signaling it is his most common shot. With the right block also being 52% this shows that if Green can work in some off-ball movement and cutting from the right side, he is more likely to hit a shot there. Another interesting key is that Green is the most successful from the right corner at 43%, indicating that he clearly has more success on one side of the court. The Suns should utilize him on the right wing to create more offense.
<img src="https://platform.brightsideofthesun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/45/2025/10/brightsidejalengreen.png?quality=90&strip=all&crop=1.4531043593131,0,97.093791281374,100" alt="" title="" data-has-syndication-rights="1" data-caption="" data-portal-copyright="" />
Mark Williams is a bit different; on the court, when healthy, he has been dominant. The only concern is ensuring he stays healthy. The big man’s career high games played in a season is 44, which is barely over the halfway mark of the season. That being said, in the time he is out there, he can be representative of a top-half center in the league. Williams is close to averaging a double-double in his career, and with a fully healthy season, that goal could be reached.
Sadly, to start the season, we have already seen Williams sidelined, but this appears to be a precautionary measure for the start of the season. Williams is reportedly doing everything in training camp to get his body ready for the beginning of the season. He has even stated that he will be prepared for opening night.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-dnt="true">"I'll be playing opening night." STORY: Mark Williams good with Phoenix Suns intentional plan leading up Oct. 22 season opener against Sacramento Kings (w/videos) <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Suns?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Suns</a> <a href="https://t.co/3sOPD2e9sJ">https://t.co/3sOPD2e9sJ</a>— Duane Rankin (@DuaneRankin) <a href="https://twitter.com/DuaneRankin/status/1974543953983918374?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 4, 2025</a></blockquote>
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We also saw some encouraging words from his teammate, Nick Richards. Richards is another center in the Suns’ frontcourt and is also a former teammate of Williams. They both played for the Charlotte Hornets together before being traded to Phoenix this year. Their bond, which they shared, seems to continue on their next journey as well. If Williams can prove to be the dominant big man that the Suns see as an investment in, he can be a solution for now and also an excellent piece for the future.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-dnt="true">Suns big Nick Richards said the hope is for Mark Williams to play “more than 70 games” this season. Williams has played a total of 106 games in three NBA seasons. “You want him to be healthy at all times, but just from being around him all the time, it doesn’t look like he’s… <a href="https://t.co/6Yt41xRHVt">pic.twitter.com/6Yt41xRHVt</a>— Duane Rankin (@DuaneRankin) <a href="https://twitter.com/DuaneRankin/status/1973524283566805299?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 1, 2025</a></blockquote>
</div></figure>
The Suns need this dominance from a big man, as they have lacked it these past couple of seasons. With no big man to play off of, it seemed difficult for Booker and Beal to work the PnR effectively, especially last season. We all remember the center problems with Jusuf Nurkic and Mason Plumlee, and we all saw the laziness of DeAndre Ayton after his payday. The Suns need that aggressive rebounder, someone who can control the paint as a high-flying shot blocker and rim deterrent. That is where the hope for Williams comes into play.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Why do they need to prove it?</h2>
Green needs to prove it to showcase that he is worth the contract the Rockets gave him. With the glamour of the number two overall pick wearing off, his value could dip as well if he does not perform well in Phoenix. This would then leave the Suns with an even harder contract to move compared to its current value. Green also wants to excel as a secondary scorer so he can ensure himself getting another long-term deal. He is locked up for two more seasons, but still has yet to receive the maximum contract he had his sights on as early as draft night. That motivation itself may push Green to thrive as the second scorer and become more consistent for the team, which needs as much offense as it can get.
For Williams, this is the most crucial year of his career. The big man is currently a restricted free agent at the end of the season. As you know, the new CBA does not favor that respective group. We just saw this past offseason how difficult it was for the four players involved. The drama went on for months, and for the majority of them, the end was neither desired nor was it a genuine resolution, but rather a means to stall conversations until next year. This is something that the Suns and Williams will both try to avoid, as neither party wants to deal with this.
By staying healthy and producing at a quality level, Williams will prove he is worth a contract extension, and from there, the numbers should be agreed upon with Big Bucks Ishbia at the helm. If not, however, this is where issues could arise. 
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Final Thoughts</h2>
Both players have to prove something this year for the Suns. 
Green has to be able to score effectively and mesh seamlessly into the offense, while Williams has to stay healthy enough to dominate the paint and secure a long-term contract. Both seem to have an uphill battle ahead, and it will be inspiring to see who can overcome the difficulties they have faced in their careers so far. 
As new faces in a new place, this is the perfect opportunity for them to evaluate their skills and truly unleash their potential for the Suns.
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]]>
</content>
</entry>
<entry>
<author>
<name>John Voita</name>
</author>
<title type="html"><![CDATA[A doppelgänger, a jersey, and the strange symmetry of basketball fame]]></title>
<link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/suns-news/90463/devin-booker-meets-china-book-lookalike-alou-loulin-macao-basketball-doppelganger" />
<id>https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/?p=90463</id>
<updated>2025-10-11T16:02:22-04:00</updated>
<published>2025-10-11T16:00:00-04:00</published>
<category scheme="https://www.brightsideofthesun.com" term="Suns News" />
<summary type="html"><![CDATA[It’s not every day you fly halfway across the world, play a basketball game on foreign soil, and then meet your mirror image on the other side. Doppelgänger might be a stretch, sure, but Devin Booker’s encounter with Alou Loulin, better known across social media as “China Book,” comes close enough to make you question […]]]></summary>
<content type="html">
<![CDATA[
<figure>
<img alt="" data-caption="" data-portal-copyright="" data-has-syndication-rights="1" src="https://platform.brightsideofthesun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/45/2025/10/Untitled-design-2.png?quality=90&strip=all&crop=0,0,100,100" />
<figcaption>
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It’s not every day you fly halfway across the world, play a basketball game on foreign soil, and then meet your mirror image on the other side. Doppelgänger might be a stretch, sure, but Devin Booker’s encounter with Alou Loulin, better known across social media as “China Book,” comes close enough to make you question reality.
For years, we’ve emulated greatness on the hardwood ourselves. The footwork of Hakeem, the fadeaway of MJ, the killer crossover of Iverson. It’s basketball’s version of cultural inheritance. But Loulin takes that lineage and runs with it, full stride. He doesn’t just mimic Booker’s movements and shooting form. He’s embodied the man entirely. The jump shot, the posture, the quiet confidence, even the signature faded haircut and razor-lined chinstrap beard.
Scroll through his viral clips and it’s almost disorienting. The desert icon reborn in a misty forest? Booker’s pull-up three, framed by fog and ferns instead of arena lights? It’s as if somewhere between time zones and TikTok algorithms, reality glitched and Devin Booker found himself looking back through the mirror of basketball’s global reach.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-dnt="true">Booker already putting in that work in China. <a href="https://t.co/Ty29auhHVl">pic.twitter.com/Ty29auhHVl</a>— itsallphoenix (@itsallphoenix2) <a href="https://twitter.com/itsallphoenix2/status/1917054863797850178?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 29, 2025</a></blockquote>
</div></figure>
But alas, no. That wasn’t Devin Booker. It was Loulin. The myth, the mimic, the mirror image himself.
After the Suns wrapped up <a href="https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/suns-scores-results/90393/suns-nets-132-127-overtime-recap-china-jordan-goodwin-khaman-maluach-rasheer-fleming-highlights">their win over the Brooklyn Nets</a> on Friday morning, the worlds of fiction and flesh briefly collided. Loulin made the pilgrimage to Macao, stepping out of the internet and into real life, where he finally met the man whose game he’d spent years studying, dissecting, and recreating frame by frame.
There they stood. Book and “China Book”. The original and the reflection, separated by oceans but bound by the same jumper. It was one of those rare moments where basketball’s reach feels surreal, where fandom and artistry blur until you can’t tell where imitation ends and inspiration begins.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-dnt="true">The interaction you didn't know you needed to see. Book 🤝 China Book <a href="https://t.co/F241MHdsaX">pic.twitter.com/F241MHdsaX</a>— Phoenix Suns (@Suns) <a href="https://twitter.com/Suns/status/1976695036881650123?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 10, 2025</a></blockquote>
</div></figure>
“It was nice meeting ‘China Book.’ Thought it’d be a long shot that we’d cross paths, but you know what, a perfect place to do it,” Booker said. “I ended up giving him my game jersey today.”
Just goes to show you that the world never runs out of weird, wonderful surprises. One minute you’re playing ball halfway across the planet, the next you’re shaking hands with your own reflection. Basketball may be the common thread, but it’s moments like these that remind us how small, and how endlessly fascinating, the world really is. 



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</content>
</entry>
<entry>
<author>
<name>Holden Sherman</name>
</author>
<title type="html"><![CDATA[SBN Reacts: Suns fans expect the team to finish low in the division]]></title>
<link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/suns-analysis/90428/suns-pacific-division-predictions-standings-fan-poll-analysis-2025-season-outlook" />
<id>https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/?p=90428</id>
<updated>2025-10-10T16:51:40-04:00</updated>
<published>2025-10-11T12:00:00-04:00</published>
<category scheme="https://www.brightsideofthesun.com" term="Suns Analysis" />
<summary type="html"><![CDATA[After a down year and a ton of turnover in both the front office and roster, Phoenix Suns fans are predicting the team will once again finish in the bottom half of the standings in the Pacific Division, but not last again. I’m not surprised that fans think that the team will finish fourth. With […]]]></summary>
<content type="html">
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<img alt="" data-caption="" data-portal-copyright="" data-has-syndication-rights="1" src="https://platform.brightsideofthesun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/45/2025/10/gettyimages-2240284700.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&crop=0,0,100,100" />
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After a down year and a ton of turnover in both the front office and roster, Phoenix Suns fans are predicting the team will once again finish in the bottom half of the standings in the Pacific Division, but not last again. 
<img src="https://platform.brightsideofthesun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/45/2025/10/Phoenix_1_100725.png?quality=90&strip=all&crop=0,0,100,100" alt="" title="" data-has-syndication-rights="1" data-caption="" data-portal-copyright="" />
I’m not surprised that fans think that the team will finish fourth. With the dull offseason the Sacramento Kings had and the lack of optimism around the team’s roster construction, while I can’t confirm people put the Valley fourth because they project the Kings to have a down year, I wouldn’t be surprised if that was why. What does surprise me however is that more than a quarter of voters think the team will finish in third, meaning they would finish ahead of one of the Golden State Warriors, Los Angeles Lakers or Los Angeles Clippers.
The three squads beefed up their depth without losing many of their main rotation pieces after all either winning at least 50 games or advancing to the second round last season. While LeBron James is expected to miss the start of the season, Luka Dončić is slated to play his first full season with the purple and gold, Jimmy Butler will have his first full year in the Bay and Kawhi Leonard is expected to be healthy to start the year for the Clips. <a href="https://sportsbook.fanduel.com/navigation/nba?tab=division" data-type="link" data-id="https://sportsbook.fanduel.com/navigation/nba?tab=division">All three of them have significantly shorter odds to win the division, according to FanDuel Sportsbook</a>.
With more fans voting for the Suns to finish third than fifth, it appears that fans believe the team’s offseason moves will help them win games right away, or that they don’t believe in the rest of the division to have a strong year like they did last season. 
For the Suns to surprise people and not finish last in the division, as what they’re projected to do by many outlets, someone alongside Devin Booker will have to step up as a primary scorer, and Mark Williams and the team’s bigs need to be playmakers on both ends of the floor. 
While I expect both the Suns and Kings to be battling for the fourth spots in the division, it will interesting to see who will take the top spot in the division. The two LA team’s and the Warriors are expected to all have strong seasons, but to be a tier below the Denver Nuggets, Houston Rockets and the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder as title contenders. With Kevin Durant traded and Bradley Beal gone, the Valley is not considered by many one of the top team’s in their division for the first time in a long time.
Who do you think will win the Pacific Division? 
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