Ighodaro Named Suns Starting Center for Season Opener Against Kings

PHOENIX, Arizona — The Phoenix Suns will tip off their 2025-26 season Wednesday night against the Sacramento Kings, with rookie Oso Ighodaro starting at center. The game is set to begin at 7:00 p.m. Arizona time at the Mortgage Matchup Center.

Ighodaro’s promotion to the starting five comes after he rested during the preseason finale. Despite Mark Williams being available after missing previous games, Ighodaro will hold the starting position. His minutes might be limited, as Williams is expected to play between 20 and 24 minutes.

This matchup signifies a fresh start for the Suns under new coach Jordan Ott, following a disappointing last season. The Kings will be without two key players — Domantas Sabonis and Keegan Murray — providing the Suns a crucial chance to establish their new identity.

The Suns’ starting lineup features four returning players and one newcomer. With Jalen Green sidelined due to a right hamstring strain, veteran Allen will take his place. Allen hopes to rebound from last season’s struggles, which the team’s general manager Brian Gregory has publicly supported.

Point guard Devin Booker will lead the team and aims to improve on last year’s average of 7.1 assists per game. With Green absent, Booker will likely face increased defensive pressure but has a strong playmaking opportunity.

Defensive specialist Dillon Brooks, recently acquired, is expected to add intensity and a new defensive tone, addressing the Suns’ prior inefficiencies. He, along with sophomore guard Dunn, will challenge the Kings’ wing players from the start.

Ighodaro’s skillset and integration with existing players like Booker and Dunn could benefit the Suns against a weakened Kings roster. Suns fans are excited to see how Ighodaro and the team perform in this new opening game.

Coach Ott expressed enthusiasm over Williams’ debut, noting his hard work during the offseason. He believes Williams’ energy will be instrumental as the team aims to establish a high-paced play style.