Phoenix Suns head coach Mike Budenholzer has revealed the team’s starting lineup for the upcoming 2024-25 NBA season.
In an interview with NBA.com’s Steve Aschburner, Budenholzer confirmed that newly signed guard Tyus Jones will be the starting point guard.
“When you put him out there with Kevin, Brad, Book, and Nurk, we feel like we’ve got a strong starting five,” Budenholzer said.
Jones will be joined by Kevin Durant, Bradley Beal, Devin Booker, and Jusuf Nurkic, forming a formidable lineup for the upcoming season.
Budenholzer emphasized that Jones’ addition will help the team play faster and more efficiently, particularly in transition.
“Tyus can help us play faster. He’s great with the kick-aheads, he’s great with getting teammates involved in transition,” Budenholzer explained.
Jones, who played for the Washington Wizards last season, was a starting point guard for the first time but faced challenges as the team struggled to win games.
Despite the Wizards’ difficulties, Budenholzer believes Jones’ skill set is a perfect fit for the Suns’ high-powered roster.
“Certainly, we feel like Tyus has established himself as a great starting point guard in our league, and he will be our starter,” Budenholzer added.
Known for his passing and decision-making, Jones has consistently ranked among the league leaders in assist-to-turnover ratio, which Budenholzer praised.
“He’s a guy who has always been a high assists guy, low turnovers. He can get us organized,” Budenholzer said.
The Suns acquired Jones in free agency this offseason, adding a proven floor general to a lineup already stacked with All-Star talent.
“We feel like we’ve got a strong starting five and a really strong bench behind them,” Budenholzer noted.
This offseason marked significant changes for the Suns, as they continue to build on their success under the ownership of Mat Ishbia and Justin Ishbia.
With Budenholzer at the helm, the Suns enter the 2024-25 season as one of the top contenders in the West.
Phoenix’s depth and talent-heavy roster, combined with Budenholzer’s championship pedigree, have raised expectations for a deep playoff run.