Tyus Jones Joins Phoenix Suns on a One-Year Deal
In a significant move that could reshape the Phoenix Suns’ prospects for the upcoming NBA season, point guard Tyus Jones has agreed to a one-year, $3.3 million deal with the team. The 28-year-old brings experience and playmaking skills to a Suns roster already brimming with talent.
"The chance to play for the Phoenix Suns made the most sense on a lot of levels to me and my family—beginning with the way [governor] Mat Ishbia and the front office recruited me to how coach [Mike Budenholzer] showed me how I can significantly impact a team that has a real opportunity to challenge for an NBA title as their starting point guard," Jones said, reflecting on his decision to join Phoenix.
Jones, who averaged 12.0 points and 7.3 assists during the 2023-24 campaign with the Washington Wizards, is poised to be a valuable addition to the Suns’ lineup. This will be Jones’ fourth NBA team in his career, having previously played for the Minnesota Timberwolves, Memphis Grizzlies, and Washington Wizards. Notably, he spent his first four seasons (2015-19) with the Timberwolves before moving to the Grizzlies for another four-season tenure.
The New Look Suns
The Suns’ roster is already loaded with star power, featuring the likes of Devin Booker, Kevin Durant, and Bradley Beal. By adding Jones, Phoenix aims to enhance their backcourt depth and playmaking capabilities, which are essential for a deep postseason run. With the Suns offering Jones a veteran’s minimum salary, the franchise was able to seal the deal without breaking the bank.
"My agent [Bradbury] walked me and my family through multiple free agent offers and sign-and-trade proposals at a number of different financial levels, but the Suns' opportunity is where I can best maximize my value for a return to free agency next year as well as give myself a chance to be part of what I think will be a special team and season," Jones explained.
Jones’ solid performance in the previous season, coupled with his playoff experience, makes him an asset for the Suns. During the 2022 playoffs with the Memphis Grizzlies, he averaged 9.2 points, 4.5 assists, and 1.2 steals over 12 games, demonstrating his ability to contribute when it matters most.
A Veteran Presence
At 28 years old, Tyus Jones enters this new chapter of his career with a clear sense of purpose and opportunity. Though he’s joining a team dominated by high-profile names, Jones’ role should not be underestimated. As the likely starting point guard, his task will be to manage the game efficiently while facilitating the offensive firepower of Booker, Durant, and Beal. His consistency and veteran presence in the locker room are expected to provide a steadying influence on and off the court.
The Suns’ pursuit of an NBA title has been persistent, and the addition of Jones serves to reinforce their commitment to achieving this goal. The blend of high-caliber talent and experienced leadership could finally position Phoenix as a formidable contender in the Western Conference.
In an ever-competitive NBA landscape, Jones’ signing is a calculated bet by the Suns’ management. As the new season approaches, all eyes will be on Phoenix to see how this revitalized roster gels together and performs under pressure.