Devin Booker Embraces Loyalty to Suns as Season Begins

SAN FRANCISCO — Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker, starting his 11th season in the NBA, reflects on his connection with the city of Phoenix and its fans. He describes the support he feels from the community as something very special.

Booker made these comments in advance of a game against Stephen Curry and the Golden State Warriors. Both players share a unique status in today’s NBA, having spent their entire careers with one franchise amid frequent player movement.

“You know it because there’s not many,” he said during a Tuesday shootaround. “I know he holds a special place in everybody’s heart here in the Bay. And I feel a similar type of love in Phoenix. It’s something special.”

This summer, Booker surprised many by signing a two-year contract extension worth $145 million with the Suns, despite the franchise entering a rebuilding phase after trading superstar forward Kevin Durant to the Houston Rockets. Booker expressed his commitment, emphasizing the pride he feels representing Phoenix.

<p“It’s a lot of responsibility,” he said. “I try to communicate to the young guys the feeling of having deep playoff runs and making the city electric.”

Drafted by the Suns as the 13th overall pick in the 2015 NBA Draft, Booker has endured highs and lows with the organization, including nearly capturing an NBA championship in 2021. He remains dedicated to the franchise and wants to bring back the excitement of past playoff runs.

<p“Having those couple deep playoff runs… is a feeling that I’m chasing,” Booker said. He noted his development alongside the franchise as he recalls the city embracing him as an 18-year-old rookie.

<p“Every tough moment, and all the way to making a Finals run, the city watched me grow up,” he explained. “I enjoyed growing up in the city.”

Booker also respects how loyalty is valued in the NBA, recalling legends like Tim Duncan and Kobe Bryant who remained with one team throughout their careers. He acknowledged the special bond that emerges when a player consistently represents a city.

<p“I don’t think he’s going anywhere,” Booker said, referring to Curry's loyalty to the Warriors. “And I don’t think I am either.”

As the Suns navigate their rebuilding period, Booker remains the cornerstone of the franchise, leading the new look team while aiming for future success.