Collin Gillespie Emerges as NBA’s Most Underrated Player
The Phoenix Suns made a significant move this offseason by signing Collin Gillespie to a one-year deal valued at $2.3 million. Currently in the 2025-26 NBA season, Gillespie’s performance has surpassed expectations, solidifying his position as one of the most underrated players in the league.
Collin Gillespie’s Impressive Stats
This season, Gillespie is contributing significantly to the Suns, averaging:
- 12.7 points per game
- 5.0 assists per game
- 3.8 rebounds per game
- 1.2 steals per game
He has maintained a shooting percentage of 43.9% from the field and 42.9% from three-point range in 26.4 minutes per game. His impact off the bench as the leading scorer is a crucial factor for the team’s success, currently placing the Suns at 12 wins and 9 losses.
A Journey from Undraft to NBA Breakout
Collin Gillespie’s journey to the NBA is quite remarkable. In 2022, he went undrafted and signed a two-way contract with the Denver Nuggets. Unfortunately, he suffered a leg fracture during offseason workouts, causing him to miss the entire 2022-23 season. Despite this setback, Gillespie stayed with the Nuggets in the following season, where he excelled in the G League but eventually was let go by the team.
The Suns’ Culture Change and Future Prospects
This offseason marked a new beginning for Gillespie, aligning perfectly with the Suns’ desire for a culture change, as highlighted by owner Mat Ishbia. His breakout performance couldn’t have come at a more opportune time, raising his value significantly.
As Gillespie approaches unrestricted free agency next summer, the Suns may seek ways to retain the talented 26-year-old. Currently, if the playoffs were to start today, the Suns would face the Golden State Warriors in a play-in tournament. Gillespie’s efforts have played a pivotal role in getting the team into playoff contention, despite many outside Arizona doubting their potential.
Team Dynamics and Fan Support
While Devin Booker is often recognized as the star of the Phoenix Suns, it is essential to acknowledge Gillespie’s contributions to the team’s current standing. His positive impact extends beyond statistics; he has earned the respect of his teammates, coaching staff, and fans alike. Coach Jordan Ott has expressed his appreciation for Gillespie’s presence, signaling that the Suns hope his time with the team extends well beyond this season.
