Phoenix Suns fans didn’t have to wait long to hear from one of the Valley’s most intriguing new additions. During Media Day, Jalen Green sat down with Tom Leander and Tom Chambers to reflect on the whirlwind trade from Houston, his new partnership with Devin Booker, and what drives him heading into the 2025–26 season.
Here are four standout takeaways from that conversation the took place last Wednesday.
Green admitted the trade caught him off guard, going as far as to call the trade “shocking,” but any uncertainty quickly faded once he felt the Suns’ belief in him. He called the transition “easy” thanks to how strongly the organization wanted him.
That welcome, paired with Phoenix’s earlier-than-usual preseason, has given Green a head start in getting comfortable both on and off the court.
One of the big questions heading into the year: how will Green and Booker mesh? Green himself sounds confident. He called their connection “natural,” explaining that his speed and athleticism can open up looks for Booker, and Booker’s gravity will do the same for him.
The two share the same goal — winning — and Green believes that shared drive will push their backcourt pairing to thrive.
Lessons from Dillon Brooks
Before the trade, Green had the chance to learn from Dillon Brooks in Houston. He praised Brooks’ defensive commitment, film study, and even his comfort with the “villain” role. Those lessons, Green says, stick with him. Now, Suns fans can expect some of that grit and edge to come with him to Phoenix, a valuable ingredient for a team looking to take the next step.
More than anything, Green emphasized mindset. He spoke about defense as the Suns’ separator, playing harder than opponents, taking pride in stops, and carrying the habits he learned in Houston. At the same time, he admitted he “keeps receipts,” using criticism as fuel.
Fans can expect a Jalen Green who’s motivated by both a fresh start and a chip on his shoulder, vowing that this year, the Suns will “handle business.”
With Jalen Green in Phoenix, Suns fans have got so much to look forward to.
Right now, Jalen Green is working on his game. He’s keeping those receipts fresh in mind and getting ready to pick a new team to blow out of the gym.