© Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
PHOENIX – Going through a tough road stretch in December, Phoenix has been finding a new part of their team chemistry begins with respect over a hard-nosed work ethic. That’s how the Phoenix Suns discovered the productive chemistry between Dillon Brooks and Collin Gillespie.
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Nov 29, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix forward Brooks (3) against the Denver Nuggets in the first half at the Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Dillon Brooks, long established as the NBA’s unapologetic villain, didn’t hand out his nickname for Gillespie lightly. It began early on in the season, during Suns training camp when the intensity started to rise, and the aggressiveness from Gillespie was making Brooks notice. After a week of fiercely physical scrimmages, he dubbed him “Villain Jr.” The title wasn’t about imitation; it was about recognition. Brooks saw a reflection of the relentlessness that built his own career. They now have seen their chemistry grow and flourish so far in the 2025 NBA season while Phoenix deals with injuries to their two stars Devin Booker and Jalen Green.
Nov 21, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix guard Gillespie (12) celebrates with teammates after hitting the game winning shot against the Minnesota Timberwolves in the second half of an NBA Cup game at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Dillon Brooks speaking on building chemistry with Collin Gillespie in Phoenix:
When asked about their relationship and if it was a brotherly type of vibe, Brooks responded in an interview with Suns Analyst Tom Leander, mentioning, “I wouldn’t call it a little brother, big brother. He’s got his own, I’d say motion.”
A dynamic built from the start of the year ☄️
📺 Watch the full interview between Dillon and Collin: https://t.co/o8ptiEJe2f pic.twitter.com/2QTdTtre8b
— Phoenix Suns (@Suns) December 11, 2025
For Phoenix fans, this dynamic matters now and in April. The Suns haven’t lacked stars; they’ve lacked edge. The Villains are evidence of a shifting culture, a willingness to embrace the uncomfortable, scrappy possessions that decide playoff series. Their relationship offers a broader reminder to fans around the league that defensive identity isn’t luck. It’s taught, absorbed, and sharpened through daily collisions. Brooks is the teacher, and Gillespie has become the accelerant.
Dec 5, 2025; Houston, Texas, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Collin Gillespie (12) dribbles the ball during the fourth quarter against the Houston Rockets at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images
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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
