Tyus Jones Joins Phoenix Suns on One-Year Deal
The Phoenix Suns have bolstered their roster with the addition of point guard Tyus Jones, who has agreed to a one-year, $3.3 million deal. The 28-year-old joins a star-studded Phoenix roster that includes Devin Booker, Kevin Durant, and Bradley Beal.
Jones previously demonstrated his capabilities with the Washington Wizards during the 2023-24 campaign, where he averaged 12.0 points and 7.3 assists per game. Prior to his stint in Washington, Jones carved out significant playing time with the Memphis Grizzlies over the course of four seasons. His initial NBA journey began with the Minnesota Timberwolves, where he played from 2015 to 2019.
Reflecting on his decision to join the Suns, Jones cited a combination of personal and professional reasons that made Phoenix the right choice for him and his family. "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 explained.
Jones's versatility and proficiency on both ends of the court make him a valuable addition for the Suns, who are looking to build on their recent playoff successes. During the 2022 playoffs with the Memphis Grizzlies, Jones averaged 9.2 points, 4.5 assists, and 1.2 steals over 12 games, underscoring his ability to perform under pressure.
Financial considerations also played a role in Jones's decision to sign with Phoenix. His agent, Bradbury, helped navigate the complex landscape of free agency offers and sign-and-trade proposals. Ultimately, Jones believed the Suns provided the optimal environment for both his immediate and long-term career aspirations. "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," Jones noted.
Jones's contract with Phoenix comes at a veteran's minimum salary, a move that underscores his commitment to contributing to a potential championship contender. With a roster featuring heavyweights like Booker, Durant, and Beal, the Suns are positioned to make a deep playoff run, and Jones's role as the starting point guard will be crucial in orchestrating the team's offense.
The Suns' acquisition of Jones represents not just a strategic addition on the court, but also a testament to the franchise’s commitment to building a winning culture. As the team prepares for the upcoming season, they do so with a renewed sense of purpose and a redefined roster capable of competing at the highest levels of the NBA.
Jones's journey in the NBA has seen him evolve from a promising young talent with the Timberwolves to an experienced and reliable point guard. His tenure with teams like the Grizzlies and Wizards has equipped him with the skills and maturity required to lead a playoff-caliber team. Now, with the opportunity to make a significant impact in Phoenix, Jones is poised for a pivotal season—one that could ultimately define his career moving forward.
As the new season approaches, all eyes will be on the Suns to see how this latest addition fits into their grand scheme. For Tyus Jones, the stage is set, and the spotlight is his to seize.