ONTARIO – For Phoenix Suns fans, summer basketball isn’t just about staying entertained; it’s about evaluating how key players perform when the spotlight shifts to international competition. Dillon Brooks gave them plenty to like in Team Canada’s latest FIBA World Cup qualifier.
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Aug 2, 2024; Villeneuve-d’Ascq, France; Canada small forward Dillon Brooks (24) shoots against Spain centre Jaime Pradilla (4) and forward Juancho Hernangomez (10) in the second half in a men’s group A basketball game during the Paris 2024 Olympic Summer Games at Stade Pierre-Mauroy. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports
Dillon Brooks helps lead Team Canada to a victory:
Dillon Brooks in today’s win for @CanBball:
🇨🇦 15 PTS
🇨🇦 2 AST
🇨🇦 1 REB
🇨🇦 58.3 FG%📸 @FIBA pic.twitter.com/ys1m0EPkWV
— Phoenix Suns (@Suns) July 4, 2026
Brooks finished with 15 points while shooting an efficient 58.3 percent from the field, adding two assists and a rebound in a performance that was defined more by decision-making than volume scoring. Sharing the floor with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Andrew Nembhard, Brooks embraced his role instead of forcing the offense through himself.
Aug 6, 2024; Paris, France; Canada small forward Brooks (24) shoots against France in the first quarter in a men’s basketball quarterfinal game during the Paris 2024 Olympic Summer Games at Accor Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
Throughout his NBA career, Brooks has built a reputation as an emotional competitor and one of basketball’s most relentless perimeter defenders. At times, that intensity has overshadowed the subtleties of his game. But performances like this remind everyone that Brooks possesses a high basketball IQ and understands how to impact winning without dominating the ball. That skill becomes even more valuable in Phoenix. The Suns already have offensive firepower capable of carrying the scoring load. What they need are players who can defend multiple positions, move without the basketball, capitalize on open opportunities, and make smart decisions when surrounded by elite talent. Brooks demonstrated all of those qualities with Team Canada.
Aug 2, 2024; Villeneuve-d’Ascq, France; Canada small forward Brooks (24) controls the ball against Spain in the second half in a men’s group A basketball game during the Paris 2024 Olympic Summer Games at Stade Pierre-Mauroy. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports
International basketball often rewards discipline, chemistry, and adaptability over individual brilliance. Brooks’ ability to excel in that environment suggests he can fit seamlessly alongside high-level teammates while still making winning plays. For Suns fans, the excitement extends beyond one stat line. They’ll have another reason to tune in to the FIBA World Cup qualifiers, with Phoenix once again represented on the international stage. If Brooks continues proving he can elevate star-studded lineups rather than compete with them, Team Canada may be offering the first glimpse of exactly what the Suns hope they’ll see all season long.
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Reporter Benjamin Bliklen covers the Arizona Diamondbacks, Arizona Cardinals, and Phoenix Suns for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @BenBliklen
