PHOENIX —
Brooks, who has previously played for the Memphis Grizzlies and the Houston Rockets, shared his appreciation for the support he receives from fans both at the Mortgage Matchup Center and throughout the community. He has become a familiar face at Phoenix Mercury games and is set to host a youth basketball camp next month, further embedding himself in the local culture. Reflecting on his time in the NBA, Brooks noted, “It’s kind of brought me back to the Oregon days,” referring to his college career with the Ducks.
Brooks' Role and Team Dynamics
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Despite a career year in which he averaged 20.2 points per game, Brooks recognizes the need for improvement. His absence due to a fractured hand last season highlighted his importance to the team, as the Suns struggled without him. However, his playing style sometimes hindered the team's ball movement, and his three-point shooting percentage dropped significantly from the previous season.
Commitment to Improvement
Brooks is acutely aware of the need to enhance his game, particularly in three-point shooting and playmaking. He aims to maintain his competitive edge, understanding that complacency can lead to being outperformed by younger players. “I love basketball, so my reward would be a championship,” he stated, emphasizing his commitment to the sport beyond financial gains.
As he prepares for his tenth season in the league, Brooks reflects on his journey since being drafted in the second round in 2017. His focus has always been on winning, and he believes the Suns are well-positioned to build on last season's success. With the addition of Bridges and shooter Luke Kennard, Brooks is optimistic about the team's potential. “I think we added some shooting, some spacing, some athleticism as well,” he remarked, expressing excitement for the upcoming season.
