On Thursday, the team held a press conference to welcome Beal to Phoenix.
PHOENIX, AZ (KYMA/KECY) – The Phoenix Suns made their second major splash of the season on Thursday afternoon, when Bradley Beal took the platform for an introductory press conference.
The three-time NBA All-Star Beal was introduced to the media alongside General Manager James Jones and head coach Frank Vogel, beginning up with admiration for being welcomed into Phoenix and addressing several questions.
Everyone in attendance laughed as the newest Sun mentioned Devin Booker’s plans to bring him to Flagstaff for a vacation and mentioned the searing heat.
“When does it stop being 115?” With a chuckle, Beal inquired. “And it’s steaming hot out here.” It’s ludicrous.”
All of the laughter and pleasantries inside the Footprint Center on Thursday, however, were made possible by a trade last week that sent veteran Chris Paul, Landry Shamet, multiple second-round picks, and some trade swaps to the Washington Wizards in exchange for Beal, Jordan Goodwin, and Isaiah Todd.
Days later, Chris Paul was then sent to Golden State.
With the acquisition of Beal in Phoenix, the league’s newest “Big Three” has been formed. The All-Star guard will join Kevin Durant and Devin Booker in what is expected to be an offensive display.
“We have a lot of dynamic scorers, and the biggest box we check is our unselfishness.” “All of us want to compete, play hard, and most importantly, win,” Beal said. “I’m excited to be able to play with two Hall of Famers.” I’ve never done anything like that before. I’m excited to see what it brings, and they’ll challenge me in ways I’ve never been pushed before.”
Beal has averaged 22.1 points per game in his 11-year tenure in Washington, and he is the franchise’s all-time leader in 3-pointers made.
Injuries have been one of his recent setbacks, with him missing more than 60 games since the 2018-19 season.
However, Beal emphasized his health and the importance of working out in the offseason.
“This is the first offseason I’ve had in a long time where I’m not nicked up.” “I have time to workout and work on my body, and I take advantage of it,” Beal added. “And I understand that this is my temple, so it’s not good if I’m not available.” So that’s the most important thing for me.
When it comes to Beal completing a “Big Three” along with the great potential of big man Deandre Ayton, there comes expectations, but nothing Beal says they can’t handle. Most importantly it gives him a chance to do something he’s never been able to do in his career – being part of a championship-caliber team.
“I’m super ecstatic that every single day I have a chance to play in a meaningful game,” added Beal. “I think that was one of the biggest decisions that impacted me coming here knowing that every single night I’m going to be in an important game. Teams are going to give us their best. So I look forward to that challenge and also being in the position where we’re kind of a targeted team. So every single night I gotta lace ’em up.”
Beal signed a five-year, $251 million extension with the Wizards in 2022 – including a $57.1 million player option for the 2026-27 season and a rare no-trade clause, which transfers to the Suns.
If Beal picks up his player option for 2026-27, he will be an unrestricted free agent in the 2027 offseason.
Leave a Reply