Phoenix Suns: Cameron Payne’s resiliency gives reason for optimism

Adversity is the first word that comes to mind when I think of Cameron Payne. In that respect, there is a sense of optimism surrounding what he could provide for the Phoenix Suns ahead of the 2022-23 NBA season.

As a three-star recruit coming out of high school, and not considered a top 100 prospect, Payne found himself playing division II basketball at Murray State. An injury to Zay Jackson would thrust him into the starting line-up, where he would go on to average 16 points, 5 assists and 3 rebounds as a freshman. This was followed by an even more impressive 20.2 points, 6 assists, and 3.7 rebounds as a sophomore. It appeared the tables had turned and suddenly the once-overlooked guard was considered a fringe-first found, or even a possible lottery pick.

In 2015, fresh off what most people would consider a successful college career, he declared for the NBA draft. In a class that was not recognized for its point-guard depth, it was the smart move to make.  Only a year removed from the James Harden trade, and lacking a true point-guard outside Russell Westbrook, Oklahoma selected Payne with the 14th overall pick in the 2015 NBA Draft.

It seemed like a perfect fit; playing close to his hometown and alongside Westbrook and Kevin Durant. In his rookie year with the Thunder, he failed to stuff the stat sheet with averages of 5 points, 1.9 assists and 1.5 rebounds in just over 12 minutes per game.

With most teams eying a huge spike in the salary cap during the off-season, free agency became the biggest focus. Teams were handing out max contracts like it was monopoly money. During the off-season, he would quietly have a procedure on his right foot and was cleared for full contact prior to entering training camp.