Tyus Jones Joins Phoenix Suns on One-Year Deal
In a significant move for the Phoenix Suns, veteran point guard Tyus Jones has agreed to a one-year, $3.3 million deal. The agreement highlights the Suns' strategic approach to bolstering their backcourt, adding experience and depth to a roster already loaded with talent.
Jones, at 28, brings a wealth of experience and proven performance to Phoenix. Last season with the Washington Wizards, he averaged 12.0 points and 7.3 assists, demonstrating his ability as a reliable playmaker and scorer. Prior to his stint with the Wizards, Jones spent four seasons with the Memphis Grizzlies, where he honed his skills and solidified his reputation as a steady and dependable point guard.
Reflecting on his decision to join the Suns, Jones shared, "The chance to play for the Phoenix Suns made the most sense on a lot of levels to me and my family—beginning with the way [governor] Mat Ishbia and the front office recruited me to how coach [Mike Budenholzer] showed me how I can significantly impact a team that has a real opportunity to challenge for an NBA title as their starting point guard."
Jones' journey in the NBA began with the Minnesota Timberwolves, where he played his first four seasons from 2015 to 2019. His development during those formative years laid the foundation for his subsequent success with both the Grizzlies and the Wizards. His playoff experience with Memphis in 2022, where he averaged 9.2 points, 4.5 assists, and 1.2 steals over 12 games, further solidifies his ability to perform under pressure.
The decision to join Phoenix was not taken lightly. Jones revealed, "My agent [Bradbury] walked me and my family through multiple free agent offers and sign-and-trade proposals at a number of different financial levels, but the Suns' opportunity is where I can best maximize my value for a return to free agency next year as well as give myself a chance to be part of what I think will be a special team and season."
The addition of Jones to a roster that already includes superstars Devin Booker, Kevin Durant, and Bradley Beal is a testament to the Suns' commitment to building a championship-caliber team. By offering Jones a veteran's minimum salary, the Suns have secured a player who can provide leadership and stability at the point guard position.
Jones' impact on the team is expected to be immediate. His experience and skill set complement the existing talents on the roster, creating a more dynamic and versatile lineup. As he steps into the role of the starting point guard, his ability to distribute the ball and orchestrate the offense will be crucial to the Suns' success in the upcoming season.
This move aligns with the Suns' broader strategy of combining seasoned veterans with emerging stars to create a balanced and formidable squad. With Jones now onboard, the team is well-positioned to make a deep playoff run and potentially secure an NBA title.
As the new season approaches, all eyes will be on how Jones integrates with his new teammates and how his presence influences the overall performance of the Suns. Given his track record and the confidence placed in him by the team's leadership, there is every reason to believe that Tyus Jones will be a key factor in Phoenix's pursuit of basketball glory.