PHOENIX – The first move Phoenix Suns general manager Brian Gregory made in free agency was re-signing 26-year-old guard Collin Gillespie. The former Villanova Wildcats was on a two-way deal with the franchise last year, and started to show his impact in the second half of the season by appearing in 31 of the last 37 games. Gillespie was a spark plug off the bench and helped insert some energy into the rotation. His prowess earned him more than just another contract, but a fully-guaranteed standard contract for the 2025-2026 season.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!The deal is worth $2.4 million, and if you asked Gregory, he would say that Gillespie is worth every single penny.
Apr 13, 2025; Sacramento, California, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Collin Gillespie (12) dribbles against the Sacramento Kings during the fourth quarter at Golden 1 Center. Mandatory Credit: John Hefti-Imagn Images
Suns Gregory on Gillespie earning this new contract:
“Collin earned this opportunity with his work ethic, toughness, and the way he competes every single day. He brings a gritty edge and a high-energy presence that lifts everyone around him. He plays with heart, battles on every possession, and is the kind of guy you want in your generation.”
Apr 11, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Collin Gillespie (12) dribbles against San Antonio Spurs guard Malaki Branham (22) during the second half at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images
Gillespie averaged 5.9 points, 2.4 rebound and 2.4 assists on 43.3% shooting from beyond the arc. The Suns struggled to get consistent guard play from outside of superstar Devin Booker. The former NBA champion brought passion to a Phoenix roster that struggled to generate with all the controversy surrounding the team.
Former head coach Mike Budenholzer was getting consistent criticism, while 15-time All-Star Kevin Durant was consistently in trade rumors. The vibes from last year’s team was abysmal, but Gillespie’s emergence was a small victory lap for fans across the Valley, and he’ll be back again next year.
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Reporter Tanner Tortorella covers general assignment for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @TannerTSports
