PHOENIX – When the Players’ Choice podcast criticized Phoenix Suns star Devin Booker, arguing that while he can score, he does not make teammates better and does not impact games enough through defense or playmaking, people took notice, including Suns PG Collin Gillespie.
Feb 22, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix guard Gillespie (12) against the Portland Trail Blazers at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
👎🏼 bad take https://t.co/XbAOxRMI9F
— Collin Gillespie (@Colling1021) August 26, 2026
Colin Gillespie apparently wanted no part of that argument. The Suns point guard took to X and responded with two words: “bad take.” It was short, blunt, and significant. Players rarely need to defend every opinion they see online. Gillespie choosing to immediately push back suggests there is a level of respect for Booker inside Phoenix that extends beyond statistics.
Apr 27, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix guard Booker (1) against the Oklahoma City Thunder in the second half during game four of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
That matters because Booker is not simply another scorer on the roster. He has become the organizational centerpiece, carrying the expectations that come with being the face of the franchise. His value is tied not only to his scoring but to the attention he commands, the opportunities he creates and the responsibility he carries every night. The broader lesson for Suns fans is simple as teammates see the game from a different perspective. Gillespie’s response provides insight and shoots down the idea that Phoenix’s players don’t recognize Booker’s impact. Sometimes, a player’s two-word response can tell you exactly where the locker room stands.
Feb 22, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix guard Gillespie (12) reacts after suffering an injury against the Portland Trail Blazers in the first half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Having teammates stick up for each other on social media posts is one thing, but calling out one’s opinion of one of their leaders is another. It shows that Phoenix is building the right culture, relationships, and team that believes in each other.
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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
