The long-anticipated return of G League basketball is here for Phoenix Suns fans and their developing players. The Valley Suns, the Suns’ G League affiliate, are set to debut on the road against the Santa Cruz Warriors Friday night at 8 p.m. MST. The game will be available to watch on Tubi’s NBA G League TV, marking one of several broadcasts for the season on the free streaming platform.
The opening-day roster has been announced, with notable changes after the Suns trimmed down their training camp roster from 16 to 13 players, including the three two-way players. While some players have earned a spot, others, including the Valley Suns’ 2024 first-round G League Draft pick Nate Roberts, were cut.
Valley Suns Opening Day Roster Breakdown
The 13 players set to take the court for the Valley Suns this season include a blend of rookies, veterans, and two-way players:
- Tyrese Samuel – 6-foot-10, 240-pound forward from Florida (rookie)
- Paul Watson – 6-foot-7, 215-pound guard from Fresno State (originally from the Valley)
- Kaleb Johnson – 6-foot-6, 205-pound guard from Georgetown
- David Stockton – 5-foot-11, 165-pound guard from Gonzaga
- Collin Gillespie – 6-foot-1, 195-pound guard from Villanova (two-way)
- TyTy Washington Jr. – 6-foot-3, 195-pound guard from Kentucky (two-way)
- Jalen Bridges – 6-foot-7, 213-pound forward from Baylor (two-way)
- Moses Wood – 6-foot-8, 210-pound forward from Washington (rookie)
- Eric Washington – 5-foot-11, 185-pound guard from Miami OH
- Jaden Shackelford – 6-foot-3, 200-pound guard from Alabama
- Mamadi Diakite – 6-foot-9, 228-pound forward from Virginia
- Cassius Stanley – 6-foot-5, 190-pound guard from Duke
- Olin Carter III – 6-foot-3, 190-pound guard from San Diego (second-round G League draft pick)
Notably, Nate Roberts, a 6-foot-11 forward from Washington, was the team’s first-round pick but did not make the final cut. Roberts, who had expressed his desire to be an enforcer on the team, is left off the roster despite strong ties to Phoenix assistant coach Mike Hopkins and his former connections with teammate Moses Wood.
Projected Valley Suns Starting Lineup
Given the importance of player development, the Valley Suns are expected to feature their two-way players in key roles, particularly when they are with the G League team. Here’s the predicted starting lineup:
- Collin Gillespie – Guard
- TyTy Washington Jr. – Guard
- Jalen Bridges – Forward
- Paul Watson – Guard
- Mamadi Diakite – Forward
In addition to the starters, the first group off the bench should feature David Stockton, Jaden Shackelford, Moses Wood, and Tyrese Samuel, with Cassius Stanley, Eric Washington, and Kaleb Johnson rounding out the rotation.
What to Expect from the Valley Suns This Season
Fans can expect the Valley Suns to adopt a fast-paced, three-point heavy style of play, very much in line with the Phoenix Suns’ approach. While the players on the court may not have the same level of experience as the NBA squad, their goal will be to develop their skills, especially shooting and defense, to eventually make the leap to the next level.
The season opener against the Santa Cruz Warriors will showcase some exciting talent on both teams. The Warriors boast two-way players such as Quinten Post (former Boston College big man) and Reece Beekman (Virginia guard), while former NBA lottery pick Kevin Knox also looks to re-establish his game in the G League.
The teams will meet twice this weekend, with the first game tipping off Friday night, followed by a Saturday matchup at 8 p.m. MST. These games will be available on NBAGLeague.com and other streaming services such as ESPN+, Roku Channel, and Arizona’s Family Sports. Fans can catch 21 games on ESPN+ throughout the season, making it easier than ever to follow the Valley Suns’ journey.
Final Thoughts
While the Valley Suns are still a relatively new team, the combination of fresh talent and the leadership of head coach John Little could provide plenty of excitement this season. With an opening night that promises competitive basketball, including some intriguing matchups and exciting player debuts, fans will be eager to see how the Valley Suns perform.
Stay tuned for updates and coverage of the team’s progress throughout the season, as their G League journey begins with high hopes for both individual growth and team success.
