© Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
PHOENIX — The Phoenix Suns weren’t given much of a chance to be good this year based on preseason predictions.
Thank you for reading this post, don’t forget to subscribe!
Now, they aren’t just turning heads in Phoenix — they’re also drawing attention from NBA leadership.
Dec 18, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Jamaree Bouyea (17) against the Golden State Warriors in the second half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
ESPN analyst Brian Windhorst recently spoke on The Hoop Collective Podcast about comments made by a general manager regarding the Suns and what has changed. Like many around the basketball world, that executive didn’t have much faith in Phoenix entering the season.
“‘We had a few games with the Suns early in the season and we thought those would be easy games,’” Windhorst said, recounting the conversation. “‘And we’re like, those were not easy games.’ So, Mat Ishbia, let it be known.”
Nov 21, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Collin Gillespie (12) celebrates with teammates after hitting the game-winning shot against the Minnesota Timberwolves in the second half of an NBA Cup game at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
For a team that has undergone a rebuild, from players to leadership, gaining attention from around the NBA is a clear sign that what they’re doing is working. Even the highest officials in the league are taking notice of the product Phoenix is putting on the floor and it can no longer be ignored.
Through consistency and grit, the Suns have become difficult to overpower. Rather than relying solely on talent, the team has learned how to control the tempo and use its defense to swing games in the blink of an eye. Phoenix is no longer treated as just another opponent, but as a team that demands preparation and respect.
Nov 21, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker (left) controls the ball as forward Royce O’Neale (right) defends against the Minnesota Timberwolves forward Jaden McDaniels in the first half of an NBA Cup game at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
The Suns currently sit at 18-13, seventh in the Western Conference, and are still missing one member of their Big Three. Despite injuries and occasional underperformances, Phoenix has learned to adapt and rise to the occasion when it matters most.
Positive attention is hard to earn in professional sports, but the Suns are doing just that by making teams uncomfortable and refusing to be underestimated.
Wrapping up 2025 with 10 of our Top Suns Moments ☄️
Oct. 22: 20-point 2nd Half Comeback on Opening Night led by Devin Booker & Dillon Brooks and Jordan Ott gets his first win as an NBA Head Coach pic.twitter.com/jWDhiRt5Cx
— Phoenix Suns (@Suns) December 28, 2025
*Get the BEST Phoenix sports insider information, and exclusive content. SIGN UP HERE to unlock our premium content!*
Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde
