Dillon Brooks: Focused on Basketball Amidst Challenges

CHARLOTTE – Phoenix Suns forward Dillon Brooks is laser-focused on the team’s playoff push and rediscovering his rhythm after a challenging period. Understandably, he’s prioritizing basketball following his return to the court on March 31st against the Orlando Magic, after missing 18 consecutive games due to a fractured left hand.

The Suns went 9-9 during Brooks’ absence, highlighting the impact of his presence on the team. However, his time away from the game was marked by an off-court incident. On March 6th, Brooks was arrested in Scottsdale on suspicion of driving under the influence following a loss to the Chicago Bulls.

Addressing the Incident and Team Support

“Yeah, I’m just focused on basketball,” Brooks stated after the team’s shootaround on April 2nd, ahead of their game against the Charlotte Hornets. “Don’t want any distraction now. We’re making a playoff run and that’s what I’m focused on.”

Brooks took a field sobriety test and was arrested at 1:33 a.m., being released from Scottsdale City Jail around 3:30 a.m. He later apologized to the team, and received unwavering support from his teammates and coach.

“It feels good,” Brooks said about his return. “A lot of excitement. Can’t wait to get back in my rhythm.”

Suns guard Collin Gillespie emphasized the human aspect of the situation: “We’re all humans. We all make mistakes. He knows that. He owned it. He apologized to the team, but we got his back.”

Coach Jordan Ott echoed this sentiment, stating, “We love Dillon… We know what he brings on the court… He’s one of our own.”

Return to the Court and Future Outlook

Brooks fractured his non-shooting hand on February 21st, ironically against the Magic in Phoenix. His return saw him score nine points on 4-of-13 shooting, committing five fouls in a 115-111 loss to Orlando. Despite the rough shooting night, teammates were optimistic.

“I think he looked good,” said Suns guard Jordan Goodwin. “Turned the ball over a couple of times, but he hadn’t played in what, a month? You kind of expect that, but he’ll be fine. He’s a dog. He works hard for us.”

Brooks also picked up a technical foul within the first two minutes of the game, bringing his NBA-leading total to 17. Another technical foul will result in a one-game suspension.

Currently averaging a career-high 20.6 points, Brooks has been a key factor in the Suns’ surprising success this season. However, he acknowledges the need to integrate his game within the team’s overall strategy. “I just got to fit in,” Brooks said. “I got to pick my spots.”

Brooks is wearing a bandage on his left hand for protection, which he admits slightly impacts his ball-handling. He remains committed to regaining his form and contributing to the Suns’ playoff aspirations.

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