Opportunity meets production as Collin Gillespie nears Suns’ 3-point record

Gillespie enters the final stretch of the season just 13 3-pointers shy of the Suns’ single-season record — a remarkable development for a player who, just last year, was splitting time between the NBA and the G League with the Valley Suns.

The guard signed a two-way contract with Phoenix in July 2024, serving as a depth option and appearing sparingly while continuing to develop within the Suns’ system. The club began to rely more on his presence toward the end of the 2024-25 season. By the summer of 2025, Phoenix committed to him with a standard one-year deal.

That deal has proven to be valuable.

Suns guard Collin Gillespie (12) celebrates a three-pointer against the Bucks during a game at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix on March 21, 2026. © Patrick Breen/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Inserted into a larger role amid roster changes and injuries, Gillespie has evolved from a role player into a steady presence in the rotation — and even a starter at times. He is averaging 13.3 points and 4.8 assists while shooting 41.8% from beyond the arc. That efficiency has made him a legitimate 3-point threat and fueled performances that have put his name on the league’s radar.

The Suns’ identity this year has revolved around spacing and perimeter shooting, making it a perfect environment for Gillespie’s skill set. Phoenix has posted high 3-point totals as a team before, but Gillespie has emerged as one of the leaders in that category.

The potential milestone also highlights the journey it took to reach this position.

Mar 21, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Collin Gillespie (12) dribbles against the Milwaukee Bucks during the first half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images

Undrafted in 2022 and once viewed strictly as depth, Gillespie now stands on the brink of a mark few would have predicted when he first arrived in the Valley on a two-way deal. From the Valley Suns to a core rotation piece — and now nearing the record books — Gillespie’s story has become one of the season’s most unexpected developments.

Mar 21, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Collin Gillespie (12) shoots against the Milwaukee Bucks during the first half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images

If he continues on this trajectory, Gillespie’s name will be remembered in the Valley forever.