PHOENIX – The two-year war between Bradley Beal and Phoenix Suns fans are over. Beal was a polarizing figure in Phoenix sports, with much of the criticism not entirely his fault. The 32-year-old refused to waive his no-trade clause on his massive $110 million salary, which put the franchise in a tough place. The Suns already had a negative asset in Beal with his injury history, but now he doesn’t want to traded.
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Jan 9, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Bradley Beal (3) against the Atlanta Hawks at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
After a month-long tug-of-war battle of discussions, Beal and the front office was able to agree to a contract buyout, gifting the three-time All-Star $19 million over the next five years. Fans across the Valley took to social media to react, whether in celebration or in grieving. Beal took to Instagram to issue his goodbye message in a single emoji: Peace Sign. The post garnered massive reactions from NBA All-Stars.
NBA stars react to Beal’s goodbye message to Suns fans:
Former Suns teammates Kevin Durant and Tyus Jones found the post hilarious, likely understanding Beal’s real feelings on the situation. Atlanta Hawks guard Trae Young joined in the comment section to laugh off Beal’s indifference in his goodbye post. The saying goes, “A picture says 1000 words,” it’s likely the same for an emoji as well.
Jan 8, 2024; Los Angeles, California, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker (1) and guard Bradley Beal (3) and forward Kevin Durant (35) stands on the floor during the fourth quarter against the Los Angeles Clippers at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-USA TODAY Sports
Beal finds himself on the Los Angles Clippers, looking to rejuvenate his career. After his goodbye post, it is very likely that Beal’s return to Phoenix with his new team will not be received well from the fans in attendance.
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Reporter Tanner Tortorella covers general assignment for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @TannerTSports
