The Phoenix Suns' G League affiliate, the Valley Suns, held their media day on October 28 as players focus on development and NBA dreams. This comes as the NBA Suns seek to improve on a 1W-2L recent form, including a 125-114 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder on October 26.
Guard Koby Brea is a key figure for the Valley Suns this season. The former 2025 second-round pick didn't make the Phoenix Suns' opening roster but is using the G League to refine his game. He spent the summer working on defense and shot consistency. Brea also focused on improving his screening decisions to better help his teammates.
"The more I've been around and the more I talk to guys, the more I'm just learning," Brea said. "I think it's just understanding your role and trying to be the best that you can at your role." The team also features three players on two-way contracts: center Duop Reath, guard Pat Spencer, and forward Drew Timme. These contracts allow them to split time between the NBA and G League, offering vital development time.
Valley Suns head coach Paul Jesperson and general manager Brendan Sabean emphasized alignment with the NBA club. Player development is designed to be in lockstep with Phoenix Suns head coach Jordan Ott's system. This creates a clear pathway for call-ups. Sabean noted the organization works to balance building a winning culture with individual player growth goals.
For many players, the G League is a necessary step. Guard Kennedy Chandler, who has NBA experience with the Utah Jazz, understands the process. "It's a journey," Chandler said. "Trying to keep your head up, be level, it's a process as well."
The Valley Suns tip off their G League season on the road on Friday, November 6, against the San Diego Clippers in Oceanside, California. Their home opener at Mullett Arena in Tempe is set for Thursday, November 12, versus the Coachella Valley Lakers. These games mark the start of a long campaign where performances are constantly evaluated by the parent club.
The immediate focus for the NBA Suns is rebounding from their recent loss. After falling 125-114 to Oklahoma City, they host the Denver Nuggets at home on October 30. Their recent results show a 131-122 win over Golden State on October 24 but also a tough 124-83 defeat in Portland on October 21. Integrating lessons from both the NBA and G League levels will be key for the organization's overall success this season.
