Dillon Brooks Reflects on Memphis Journey and New Aspirations with the Phoenix Suns
Dillon Brooks, a forward for the Phoenix Suns, recently engaged in a candid conversation about his time in Memphis and his passions beyond the hardwood. As he prepares for his ninth NBA season, Brooks is eager to share how his experiences with the Grizzlies shaped him both as a player and as an individual.
From College to the NBA
Brooks’ basketball journey began at Findlay Prep in Henderson, Nevada, where he garnered attention as the 60th-ranked recruit in the Class of 2014. Opting for the Oregon Ducks under coach Dana Altman, he found the perfect environment for his skill set.
“He’s a guy that’s about routine, coming in with a certain type of energy, positive energy, every single day to get better,” Brooks noted about Altman. This mentorship propelled Brooks into a starting role as a freshman, and he steadily improved, ultimately becoming an All-American during his junior year. His leadership on the court helped guide Oregon to the Final Four, where they narrowly lost to North Carolina.
Brooks wasn’t the only talent on that 2016-17 roster; he shared the court with future NBA player Payton Pritchard. Reflecting on their time together, Brooks emphasized Pritchard’s relentless work ethic, noting, “He was just a straight dog, and I loved him as a point guard on my team.” Their shared commitment to excellence was evident as Pritchard blossomed into an All-American by his senior year.
Entering the NBA with the Grizzlies
After a standout college career, Brooks declared for the 2017 NBA Draft, where he was selected 45th overall by the Houston Rockets, only to be immediately traded to the Memphis Grizzlies. Joining a franchise in transition, Brooks faced significant challenges but found guidance in seasoned veterans like Marc Gasol and Mike Conley.
“Marc taught me tough skin,” Brooks recalled, reflecting on his relationship with Gasol. Their bond deepened after Brooks attended Gasol’s charity event, where they connected over their shared experiences in basketball and life. Gasol’s mentorship was crucial during Brooks’ formative years in the NBA, helping him navigate the pressures of professional basketball.
Conley’s wisdom also left a lasting impression on Brooks. “Take every game as a learning lesson, or every loss as a learning lesson,” Conley advised him. This mentality helped Brooks stay focused and committed to his development, even during the Grizzlies’ struggles.
Establishing a Gritty Identity
While Brooks thrived in Memphis, it was his inherent competitive spirit that truly defined his playing style. “I think it just kind of propelled me. I feel like I was always that player growing up, always played that way,” he explained. This gritty style resonated well with the Grizzlies’ fanbase and earned him a lasting legacy in Memphis, where he ranks fifth in franchise history for three-point field goals made and contributed to three consecutive playoff appearances.
A New Chapter in Phoenix
After six seasons in Memphis, Brooks’ journey took an unexpected turn as he signed with the Houston Rockets following the 2022-23 season. His tenure in Houston was relatively short-lived, culminating in a significant trade that sent him, along with Jalen Green and key draft assets, to the Phoenix Suns in a blockbuster deal for superstar Kevin Durant.
Now, as a member of the Suns, Brooks is eager to redefine his role and contribute to a championship-caliber team. His perspective on Phoenix is refreshingly optimistic, diverging from the national media’s narrative. With ambitions set high, Brooks is ready to embrace the next chapter of his career in the Valley of the Sun, aiming to leave an indelible mark in his new home.
As he embarks on this journey, Dillon Brooks is not just focused on his on-court contributions; he’s equally passionate about his off-court interests, embodying the multifaceted identity of a modern NBA player.
