Devin Booker still remembers the sting of 2021. Two wins away from a championship, only to watch the Bucks celebrate on Phoenix’s floor. That kind of heartbreak doesn’t fade, but fuels. And as the Suns tipped off Media Day this week on September 24, Booker made it clear that the fire is still burning.
The 2020-2021 season was a rollercoaster for the Phoenix Suns. After years of struggling, they finally made it to the NBA Finals, led by their young superstar Devin Booker. The team exceeded all expectations, but fell just short of the ultimate goal. It was a devastating loss for Booker and the entire Suns organization.
But as the new season approaches, Booker is not dwelling on the past. Instead, he is using it as motivation to come back stronger and finish what they started. In an interview at Media Day, Booker said, “There’s definitely unfinished business. That’s something that’s going to stick with me for the rest of my life.” This statement shows the determination and drive that Booker possesses, and it is clear that he is not satisfied with just making it to the Finals. He wants to win it all.
Booker’s words also reflect the mindset of the entire Suns team. They are not content with just making it to the Finals, they want to win it. This mentality is crucial for their success in the upcoming season. They know what it takes to get to the Finals, and now they have the added motivation to go all the way.
But it’s not just about winning for Booker. He also wants to honor the legacy of Suns legend, and his mentor, Kobe Bryant. Booker has always looked up to Bryant, and after his tragic passing in 2020, Booker has been carrying on his legacy on and off the court. He even wore Kobe’s jersey number, 24, during the All-Star game in his honor. Booker said, “I want to continue what he started and make sure the next generation knows about him and knows about what he did for the league and for the game of basketball.” This shows the deep respect and admiration Booker has for Bryant, and how he wants to continue his legacy through his own success.
There may also be some added pressure for Booker and the Suns this season, as team owner Robert Sarver has expressed his desire to win a championship. Sarver said, “I want a championship. I want it for our fans, I want it for our players, I want it for the city, and I want it for myself.” This statement could be seen as putting pressure on the team, but Booker sees it as a positive. He said, “I think it’s great. I think that’s the type of owner you want to play for.” Booker understands that Sarver’s passion for winning is in line with his own, and it will only push the team to work harder and strive for greatness.
Booker’s attitude and determination are infectious, and it is clear that he is ready to lead the Suns to success. He has already proven himself as one of the top players in the league, and now he has his sights set on a championship. With a talented and hungry team by his side, Booker’s “unfinished business” could soon become a reality.
The Suns’ Media Day also gave Booker the opportunity to address the rumors surrounding his future with the team. There were speculations that he may request a trade, but Booker put those rumors to rest. He said, “I’m 100% locked in and committed to the Phoenix Suns.” This statement should bring relief to Suns fans, as Booker’s commitment and loyalty to the team is unwavering.
In the end, Devin Booker’s “unfinished business” is not just about winning a championship. It’s about proving that the Suns are a force to be reckoned with in the NBA. It’s about honoring the legacy of Kobe Bryant and making him proud. And most importantly, it’s about the passion and determination that drives Booker and the entire Suns team. As they embark on the new season, they will carry this fire with them, and it will only make them stronger.
The 2021-2022 season holds a lot of promise for the Phoenix Suns. With Devin Booker leading the way, and a talented and hungry team behind him, they are ready to take on any challenge that comes their way. The “unfinished business” from last season will only fuel their drive to
