Suns’ Rookie Oso Ighodaro Thrives with Increased Playing Time

PHOENIX, Ariz. — Phoenix Suns rookie Oso Ighodaro has embraced his expanded role on the team as they approach a critical juncture in the 2024-25 NBA season. Ighodaro spoke with Arizona Sports on March 20 about the challenges of limited playing time earlier this season and how the experience has made recent opportunities all the more rewarding.

“It’s definitely rewarding. Not playing can be tough, especially mentally and just having to stay consistent so when your name gets called, you’re ready,” Ighodaro said.

This season, in 49 games, Ighodaro has averaged 3.7 points, 3.4 rebounds, and an assist per game. His recent performances have shown a marked improvement, highlighted by a 32-minute outing against the Sacramento Kings where he scored 11 points and secured six rebounds, contributing to a crucial 122-106 victory.

“For us, a lot of our roles on the team is defense and energy, and I think we’ve done a good job these last couple of games of executing our role,” Ighodaro stated, underscoring the importance of teamwork in their recent success.

The Suns have won three of their last four games, climbing back into the playoff picture in the Western Conference, a stark contrast to earlier in the season when they struggled to find cohesion amidst injuries and inconsistent performances.

Veteran guard Royce O’Neale praised Ighodaro’s determination. “They’re pros, pros. They had that time when they were playing a lot and then going from not playing to contributing in major ways,” O’Neale said, acknowledging the perseverance required during Ighodaro’s rookie season.

As the Suns prepare to face the Cleveland Cavaliers, the team faces additional challenges. Star players like Bradley Beal and Mason Plumlee are sidelined with injuries, pushing Ighodaro and others to step up even further. Ighodaro was specifically highlighted as a key player in the team’s strategy moving forward.

“I think we’ve played well these last couple of games, and we’ve had a lot of energy. The ball has been moving,” Ighodaro said, reflecting a shift in the team’s dynamics as they gear up for the playoffs.

With an April 1 game against the Milwaukee Bucks also set for national broadcast, the Suns are gaining attention. Overall, the Suns’ journey remains underscored by the unpredictability of player health and performance as they work toward securing a spot in the NBA Play-in Tournament.