Suns rookie Koa Peat targets role alongside Devin Booker as training camp approaches
After a productive NBA Summer League stint, the 19-year-old forward emphasises basketball IQ and learning from league legends ahead of September preparations.
Phoenix Suns rookie Koa Peat has articulated his intent to integrate seamlessly with veteran star Devin Booker, describing the five-time All-Star as a "legend" during recent media interactions. Peat, selected 30th overall in the draft, stated that his primary objective is to facilitate opportunities for Booker while absorbing lessons from one of the league’s most established players.
The 19-year-old forward spoke to Amazon Prime regarding his approach to the upcoming season, emphasising a strategy of playing off Booker’s movements and focusing on the fundamental aspects of the game. Peat noted that creating space for the All-Star and learning from his playmaking would be crucial to his own development and the team’s success.
Peat’s confidence stems from a successful NBA Summer League campaign, where he appeared in four games for the Suns. He averaged 16.8 points, 4.8 rebounds, 2.2 assists, and 1.5 steals while shooting 51 per cent from the field. His performance included scoring 12 or more points in every appearance, highlighted by a 19-point outing, demonstrating an ability to adjust to the increased competition level of professional basketball.
Prior to joining the Suns, Peat established himself as a first-round prospect through his paint scoring, ball-fakes, hesitation moves, and jump shot. During his tenure with the Arizona Wildcats, he was a third-team All-Big 12 selection and earned a spot on the Big 12 All-Freshman team, helping the Wildcats reach the Final Four for the first time since 2001. He averaged 14.1 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 2.6 assists with 35 per cent three-point shooting in college.
Peat, who stands 6-foot-8, utilised the Summer League to log minutes with teammates including Khaman Maluach, Rasheer Fleming, and Koby Brea. He described his transition to the NBA pace as "smooth," attributing this to his reliance on basketball IQ and his ability to control the tempo of the game. The Suns are now preparing to convene for training camp in September, where Peat will look to solidify his role alongside Booker.
