The Phoenix Suns are excited about the new season, and first-year head coach Jordan Ott sung the praises of Collin Gillespie at media day. The 26-year-old guard showed signs of a breakout last season, but Ott has seen the growth and belief since taking over this offseason. Gillespie helped Villanova win an NCAA title in college, and the Suns clearly see big things from him heading into the 2025-26 season.
Gillespie averaged 5.9 points, 2.4 assists, 2.4 rebounds, and 0.6 steals in 14.0 minutes per game last season, while shooting 43.3 percent from 3-point range. Those numbers may not jump off the screen, but he did put up over 15 points, six rebounds, and six assists with 1.6 steals per 36 minutes. Ott was not familiar with his game. Casual fans might not be either, but the Suns appear to have uncovered a diamond in the rough.
Gillespie is behind Devin Booker and Jalen Green in the Suns guard rotation. There are questions about Green’s fit, but not enough to bring him off the bench. Gillespie could be the next impactful bench guard capable of stepping up when needed, like TJ McConnell.
Collin Gillespie could be a game-changer for the Suns
Gillespie is a high-IQ player with a versatile skill set. He has defensive limitations because of his size, but Ott clearly believes in him. The Suns' backup point guard role is a massive question mark. The head coach could stagger Booker and Green to fill the 48 minutes, but he may want another playmaker like Gillespie on the floor to diversify the attack.
Suns fans should be excited to see Gillespie’s improvements. Fans were impressed last season, and the 26-year-old’s defined role alone should help unlock his production. Phoenix wants shooting and defense on the floor. Gillespie will compete hard and embodies their new mentality. Add in his shot-making and coach Ott will have to give him minutes.
There was plenty of optimism at media day. Devin Booker told fans exactly what they wanted to hear. The Suns feel like they are finally building a culture for the first time in the Mat Ishbia era.
Uncovering a few hidden gems like Gillespie is their only path to contention. Credit to the Suns for finding one, and everyone will be watching closely this preseason to see if a true breakout is here.
The Phoenix Suns are impressed by Collin Gillespie’s growth and appear ready to give him a larger role. Expect him to cement himself as a fan favorite and be the next backup guard to blossom in the right situation. Credit to the Suns for helping him unlock his potential. They certainly got this one right.