Tyus Jones has embraced his role with the Phoenix Suns, meshing smoothly with superstars Kevin Durant and Devin Booker. Over five games, Jones has averaged an impressive 9.4 points, 7.0 assists, and 3.6 rebounds, while helping lead the team to a 4-1 start. Despite tempting offers from other teams, Jones chose the Suns, signing a one-year, $3 million deal, even though he could have commanded a far higher salary on the open market.
“I’m loving it,”
Jones shared in an exclusive interview with Sportskeeda, reflecting on his choice. With other teams vying for his services, his decision to take a pay cut for a chance to contend has proven worthwhile. For Jones, the Suns presented the ideal situation: a team with championship aspirations and a need for a true point guard who could stabilize the offense.
Finding His Flow in Mike Budenholzer’s System
Jones’ seamless adaptation to Mike Budenholzer’s system has been a key component of the Suns’ early success. Known for his efficiency and low turnover rate, Jones is exactly what Phoenix needed. After a season with the Washington Wizards where he set a new assist-to-turnover record, Jones has continued his disciplined approach with the Suns. With an impressive 8.75 assist-to-turnover ratio to start this season, he’s the dependable floor general the Suns lacked last year.
But Jones admits there’s still an adjustment period.
“Still figuring it out, and we’re working on it every day, trying to make it more natural so we’re just making reads without thinking,”
he explained. That’s exactly the approach Budenholzer encourages—a disciplined yet confident style that allows players to feel in sync.
“He instills confidence in everyone, from 1 through 15,”
Jones shared.
“He’s the kind of guy you want to play for and go to battle with.”
Enhancing the Star Power of Durant and Booker
Playing alongside scoring powerhouses like Durant and Booker has opened up new dimensions for Jones and the Suns’ offense. Durant, a fan of Jones’ playmaking, noted the balance Jones brings to the team:
“Ball still running through me, Book, Brad. But you add Tyus in there, too; he’s mixing in a little bit. He’s not just simply controlling the whole game and handing us shots whenever he wants to. I think we’re all just playing in the flow of each other.”
Jones’ addition has allowed Booker and Bradley Beal to operate more comfortably in natural roles, reducing the playmaking burden on them. The Suns now have the flexibility to run a dynamic offense where multiple players can initiate and score. For Booker, Jones’ presence has brought a welcome change. He’s seen a substantial increase in catch-and-shoot opportunities, almost doubling from last season, which has translated into greater efficiency.
“It’s just naturally what I’ve been most of my life, and that’s a playmaker and a scorer,”
Booker explained, noting the relief Jones brings.
“You have somebody who can do it for you.”
The Impact of Tyus Jones’ Versatility
Jones’ versatility has transformed the Suns’ offensive strategy. Not only can he initiate plays, but he also poses a threat as a catch-and-shoot player, spacing the floor effectively alongside Durant, Booker, and Beal. This versatility keeps defenses guessing and maximizes Phoenix’s offensive arsenal. Durant highlighted the unique adaptability Jones brings to the team:
“The key is that we all can catch-and-shoot, catch-and-drive, play off the ball too.”
Opposing coaches have taken note of Jones’ impact, particularly Dallas Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd, who praised the challenges Jones presents.
“You can’t go to sleep on [Tyus] Jones, because he can score, and he can get into the paint, he can collapse the defense,”
Kidd said. With Jones running the offense, teams now face the unenviable task of defending against multiple threats at any time, each capable of creating high-quality shots or exploiting mismatches.
Building Chemistry and Championship Aspirations
As Jones, Durant, Booker, and the entire Suns roster adapt to Budenholzer’s system, building chemistry remains a focal point. The team has been working tirelessly to make each play second nature.
“Right now, it’s all about chemistry—building camaraderie on and off the court, understanding each other’s games, and grasping Coach Bud’s system,”
Jones said.
After a successful offseason with Team USA, where Jones played alongside other top NBA players, his experience with elite talent has helped him grow as a player. His confidence and leadership have resonated with his teammates, including Booker, who has come back stronger and more self-assured from that international experience.
Jones’ Leadership Driving the Suns’ Championship Push
Jones’ leadership extends beyond his skills on the court. Known for his diligent film study and meticulous preparation, he brings an analytical approach to every game, learning his teammates’ tendencies while identifying weaknesses in opponents. He recognizes that with the right chemistry and focus, the Suns’ potential is sky-high.
“Playing at the highest level builds your confidence,”
Jones observed.
“Devin’s one of the best in the world, and proving that on that level just adds to it. He’s brought back that experience to help all of us here.”
This shared mindset—driven by confidence, precision, and team unity—is what Jones believes will fuel Phoenix’s pursuit of a championship.
With Tyus Jones orchestrating the offense, complemented by the scoring prowess of Durant and Booker, the Phoenix Suns are poised for a thrilling season. As the players continue to mesh and Budenholzer’s system takes root, Jones’ steady hand might just be the final piece that pushes the Suns into true championship contention.
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