Sachit is an NBA content writer at EssentiallySports. He has been following the NBA for several years and is deeply passionate about the sport and it?s strategic aspects. Combining his passion and desire to stay connected with basketball, Sachit pursued a writing career. He has also pursued a degree in Sports Management to develop a deeper understanding on this subject. Sachit's love for basketball originated from his admiration for players like Russell Westbrook, LeBron James, and Kemba Walker. He is an ardent fan of the Charlotte Hornets and also takes a keen interest in the business side of the NBA, closely following reports from insiders.

"Mountains are made to be climbed aren't they! You can't lay down and say this is over"

I’m Sameen and I’m an NBA Primary Editor at EssentiallySports. The first game of basketball I ever saw was LeBron James’ iconic Game 6 performance vs the Boston Celtics in the 2012 Eastern Conference Finals, and I instantly fell in love. To this day, that remains one of the purest basketball performances I've ever seen. From that day, I decided that LeBron James is the best player that the sport has ever seen, and every performance of his since then continues to further strengthen my belief.

As a basketball player, my biggest inspirations in-game are Stephen Curry, due to his ridiculous movement, and Kyle Korver, whose catch-and-shoot ability left me awestruck whenever I watched him play. 

When I’m not working, you can find me playing soccer, basketball, or almost any other sport. Manchester United and Ferrari are my two biggest loves, and you’ll never find me not listening to Taylor Swift.

Connect with me here!

Kevin Durant leads the scorers with 43 points as the Suns extend their winning streak to six! Phoenix beat the Bulls tonight 115-113 as they snapped the latter’s two-game streak. And LeBron James can’t help but be stunned at a tough shot that KD attempted. He took to X (formerly Twitter) to share his excitement at watching the 35-year-old dominate the court. “That’s a TOUGH ASS shot @KDTrey5 [https://twitter.com/KDTrey5]!! Double Pump pull up on the move!“ (This story is still developing) 

LeBron James gives Kevin Durant his due flowers for taking the lead in tonight's victory over the Chicago Bulls, congratulating him on X.

Geisha, serving as an NBA Writer at EssentiallySports, actively engages in the coverage of breaking news, specializing particularly in injury reports. Demonstrating a notable proficiency in beat reporting, she is currently advancing her scope to include events, focusing specifically on refining her skills in play-by-play commentary through Live Blogs. Moreover, she maintains a vigilant watch on BTS narratives, recognizing their potential to shape or disrupt the NBA landscape.
Driven by passion for literature and fondness for the Warriors, Geisha's allegiance to the GSW franchise and her admiration for Stephen Curry goes pretty strong. Her steadfast commitment to objective analysis and a broad understanding of the sport ensures the readers get impartial NBA insights.
Dissecting the offensive and defensive side is what makes her one of our most comprehensive contributor, that will truly immerse you into everything NBA!

Geisha Pulimoottil Don

Geisha actively engages in the coverage of breaking news, specializing particularly in injury reports. Demonstrating a notable proficiency in beat reporting, she is currently advancing her scope to include events, focusing specifically on refining her skills in play-by-play commentary through Live Blogs. Moreover

Geisha Pulimoottil Don | NBA Writer at EssentiallySports

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Geisha, serving as an NBA Writer at EssentiallySports, actively engages in the coverage of breaking news, specializing particularly in injury reports. Demonstrating a notable proficiency in beat reporting, she is currently advancing her scope to include events, focusing specifically on refining her skills in play-by-play commentary through Live Blogs. Moreover, she maintains a vigilant watch on BTS narratives, recognizing their potential to shape or disrupt the NBA landscape. Driven by passion for literature and fondness for the Warriors, Geisha's allegiance to the GSW franchise and her admiration for Stephen Curry goes pretty strong. Her steadfast commitment to objective analysis and a broad understanding of the sport ensures the readers get impartial NBA insights. Dissecting the offensive and defensive side is what makes her one of our most comprehensive contributor, that will truly immerse you into everything NBA!

https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/Geisha-96x96.png

“Not only is there more to life than basketball, there’s a lot more to
basketball than basketball” - Jackson had a simple philosophy when he was
coaching the Lakers. He wanted everyone to succeed and grow in the service of
something bigger than themselves. This is what struck me the most. A simple,
badminton player accidentally fell in love with basketball so much that she
decided to become an NBA writer at EssentiallySports. My love began after I
started watching LeBron James highlights and his gameplay was so refreshing for
me, I had to utilie my English degree to start writing about him and the sport.
Today, as an NBA writer, I am writing for not just Lakers but many other players
and teams, sharing my passion with my son and my daughter. But when I am not
writing, you’d find me on my couch watching Lucifer, Grimm or even Bridgerton!
Want to know more about me? Hit me up on the following links:

NBA: Preseason-Phoenix Suns at Los Angeles Lakers

Oct 19, 2023; Palm Desert, California, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant (35) defends Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) during the first quarter at Acrisure Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-USA TODAY Sports

NBA: Preseason-Phoenix Suns at Los Angeles Lakers - EssentiallySports

Pragya Vashisth is Lead Editor for the NBA Legends division at EssentiallySports. He holds a Masters in Sports Management and has embraced multiple roles from writer to editor at ES. Pragya is putting his penchant for writing and passion for basketball to mentor the next batch of editors. From the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame ceremony to game analysis by icons like Shaquille O’Neal, Charles Barkley, and more, he has been at the center of all things related to the legends. His successful coverage of major sporting events helped him transition to the lead editor role, where he ensures quality and responsible journalism practices. Additionally, Pragya was a divisional basketball player and has been following the NBA for over 15 years.

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Pragya Vashisth

span

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strong

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Bronny in Deep Waters as $800,000 Suffering Forces LeBron James’ Son to End
College Career With Major Declining Numbers

Bronny’s Suffering Doesn’t Affect Brother Bryce as LeBron James’ Younger Son
Sees Stability Financially

Lakers Advised To Terminate LeBron James’ $99 Million Contract, a Move That
Could Save His Legacy

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Viral in Suns vs Wolves Game 4

“It Will Ruin the Game”: Citing Caitlin Clark’s Example, Geno Auriemma Warns
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Delving into the business intricacies of the sports world ft. Chloe V. Mitchell

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3 Time Mr. Olympia Frank Zane- The Chemist who made Arnold Schwarzenegger cry


MILLION DOLLAR BLING, Saudi Arabian Glory, World Title and More  Ft. Impa Kasanganay

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<h2 style="text-align: center">Who is Kevin Durant?</h2>
Since entering the league as the 2nd overall pick in 2007, Kevin Durant has established himself as one of the most prolific scorers of the game. Standing at 6'10 with guard skills, his ability to get his shot off against any defender changed the dynamics and the prerequisites of the power forward position. He has won an MVP award, 4 scoring titles, with multiple deep playoff runs, and 2 Finals MVPs while winning back-to-back championships with the Warriors. Injuries, however, have plagued the past few seasons since his Achilles tear in 2019.

[caption id="attachment_2467162" align="alignnone" width="4273"]<img class="size-full wp-image-2467162" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/2023-12-16T040353Z_348935045_MT1USATODAY22114761_RTRMADP_3_NBA-NEW-YORK-KNICKS-AT-PHOENIX-SUNS.jpg" alt="" width="4273" height="2849" /> Dec 15, 2023; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant (35) makes the pass against the New York Knicks in the first half at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-USA TODAY Sports[/caption]

When healthy, Durant performs at an elite level: a facet of the player that was brought to light in his 2022 playoff run, when he carried the Nets without co-stars Kyrie Irving and Ben Simmons. Though questions linger about his health, his offensive performances have, nevertheless, secured his legacy.
<h2 class="jsx-cb26a7af5694ead9" style="text-align: center">Kevin Durant's early life</h2>
Kevin Durant was born on September 29, 1988, in Washington D.C. The forward spent most of his early life in Prince George's County, Maryland. From a young age, Durant was a very talented basketball star. After graduating from Montrose Christian School, he committed to the University of Texas in Austin in 2006 despite offers from multiple popular programs. After one year of college basketball, KD declared for the NBA draft in 2007. According to reports, he later earned a bachelor's in education with a minor in social work.
<h2 class="jsx-cb26a7af5694ead9" style="text-align: center">Kevin Durant's family and personal life</h2>
Kevin Durant's parents are Wanda Durant and Wayne Pratt. He has three siblings, Brianna, Tony, and Rayvonne. Durant's father abandoned the family when he was an infant and his parents eventually divorced later. The two-time Finals MVP's grandmother helped Wanda in raising him. When KD was 13, Pratt re-entered his life and traveled with him around the country for basketball tournaments.

Durant was once engaged to WNBA star Monica Wright. They started dating in 2013 and were engaged a few months later. However, the engagement was called off, and they reportedly broke up in 2014. He once talked about <a class="jsx-2b55705d932ea6e9" href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/nba-basketball-news-kevin-durant-once-revealed-why-he-broke-up-with-his-fiancee-i-love-this-girl-but-i-didnt-love-her-the-right-way/" target="_self" rel="noopener">the reason behind the failed relationship</a>.

After this, it was rumored KD dated Cassandra Anderson who is a real estate broker. She was spotted attending his games from the spouses' area during his time with the Warriors. There were multiple social media posts of the two together as well. However, the posts were later deleted. It is unclear whether Durant and Cassandra broke up or whether they are trying to keep it private.
<h2 class="jsx-cb26a7af5694ead9" style="text-align: center">Kevin Durant's Net Worth in 2024</h2>
Kevin Durant has an estimated net worth of around $300 million, according to various reports. Durant currently plays for the Phoenix Suns, after a blockbuster trade from the <a class="jsx-2b55705d932ea6e9" href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/category/nba/brooklyn-nets/" target="_self" rel="noopener">Brooklyn Nets</a> in February 2023. He is set to earn $46,407,433 during the 2023-24 NBA season. The two-time NBA champion also earns tens of millions from endorsements thanks to his popularity and success on the hardwood. Furthermore, KD is also an entrepreneur who invests his well-earned money which has helped him build a business empire. In terms of being the highest-paid athlete in the world, Kevin Durant rounds out the 2023 top ten with $89.1 million.
<h2 class="jsx-cb26a7af5694ead9" style="text-align: center">Kevin Durant's career timeline</h2>
Kevin Durant was one of the best college basketball stars in the country while playing for the University of Texas. He led the Longhorns to a 25-10 record and clinch 4th seed in the NCAA Tournament. Despite a great game from Durant, the team was eliminated in the second round. For his impressive performances, KD won the National Player of the Year award along with other prestigious accolades. After one year with Texas, he declared for the NBA draft in 2007.

Even though there were some reservations about his lanky build, Durant was expected to be a lottery pick. The Seattle SuperSonics selected KD as the 2nd pick of the draft. However, many still thought that the 6'10" youngster would struggle to play against the well-built stars in the NBA. But that was far from the reality. Durant hit the ground running and won the Rookie of the Year award averaging 20 points per game.
<figure class="jsx-b9c5e7fc3c08d611">
<div class="jsx-3627078410 es-image-loader-aspect-ratio"><img id="img-tag-node--img-loader-0" class="jsx-3627078410" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/20210228105037/Harden-Westbrook-Durant-OKC-Thunder.jpg" /></div>
<figcaption>
via Getty

</figcaption></figure>
After his rookie year, the franchise moved to Oklahoma, rebranding as the <a class="jsx-2b55705d932ea6e9" href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/category/nba/oklahoma-city-thunder/" target="_self" rel="noopener">Oklahoma City Thunder</a>. The Slim Reaper continued his ascension and dominated his opponents. The Thunder were one of the best young teams with KD, Russell Westbrook, and James Harden in the lineup. Durant led the team to the 2012 NBA Finals but lost the title to LeBron James' Miami Heat.

KD was arguably in his prime during the 2013-14 season and won the NBA MVP award averaging 32 points. However, team success was still hard to come by as the Thunder were knocked out in the Conference Finals. After two more disappointing seasons in Oklahoma, Durant joined the <a class="jsx-2b55705d932ea6e9" href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/category/nba/golden-state-warriors/" target="_self" rel="noopener">Golden State Warriors</a>. He received major criticism for joining the team that beat the Thunder in the Conference Finals the previous year and also for forming a super team.

Durant instantly helped the Warriors with his skill set and experience. The Dubs won two straight titles and KD won the Finals MVP award on both occasions. The Warriors' hunt for a third straight ring in 2019 came up short in the Finals against the Toronto Raptors as KD struggled with injury throughout the playoffs. After some internal issues within the team, Durant left the Warriors and joined the Brooklyn Nets.
<figure class="jsx-b9c5e7fc3c08d611">
<div class="jsx-2802443379 es-image-loader-aspect-ratio"><img id="img-tag-node--img-loader-0" class="jsx-2802443379" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/GettyImages-1172448246.jpg" /></div>
<figcaption>
via Getty

</figcaption></figure>
This move was again criticized heavily as Kyrie Irving also joined the Nets the same year. However, because of COVID protocol, Irving missed a lot of games. Then in 2021, Durant's former teammate James Harden also joined the team. But the trio barely played together due to various reasons and Harden left after one year. In the 2022-23 season, the Nets started the season poorly but then went on a great run and looked unstoppable. But things changed after Irving requested a trade and moved to the Dallas Mavericks. Durant later joined the <a class="jsx-2b55705d932ea6e9" href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/category/nba/phoenix-suns/" target="_self" rel="noopener">Phoenix Suns</a> in a blockbuster move to play alongside Devin Booker and Chris Paul.

In 2023, Durant announced that he would return to wearing the No. 35 jersey, which he had worn throughout his college and professional career before joining the Nets. The same year, he also finished the regular season shooting over 55% from the field, over 40% from three-point range, and over 90% from the free-throw line, becoming the first player in NBA history to achieve those shooting splits in a season. Durant also passed Hakeem Olajuwon in October for 12th on the all-time career scoring list and became the 12th player all-time to reach 27,000 career points.
<h2 class="jsx-cb26a7af5694ead9" style="text-align: center">Kevin Durant's NBA career stats</h2>
Regular season stats:

Games played - 1020

Points per game - 27.3

Rebounds per game - 7.0

Assists per game - 4.4

Playoffs stats:

Games played - 166

Points per game - 29.4

Rebounds per game - 7.8

Assists per game - 4.2
<h2 class="jsx-cb26a7af5694ead9" style="text-align: center">Kevin Durant's endorsements</h2>
Some of the biggest endorsements and partnerships of Kevin Durant are as follows:

Alaska Air Group

Google

BBVA

Sparkling ICE

NBA 2K

American Family Insurance

Panini

Skullcandy

Gatorade

Sonic Drive-In

Sprint

Nike
<h2 class="jsx-cb26a7af5694ead9" style="text-align: center">Kevin Durant's investments</h2>
Kevin Durant can be hauled as a successful investor. The 13-time NBA All-Star has reportedly made over 80 investments through his firm Thirty Five Ventures which operates as a venture capital firm. Some of the most important investments of KD include Postmates, Yoshi, Rubrik, Whoop, Robinhood, Pieology, etc. KD reportedly earned around $15 million after Uber acquired Postmates. Furthermore, KD has a minority stake in MLS' Philadelphia Union and the NWSL's NJ/NY Gotham FC.

In October 2022, Durant joined fellow professional athletes LeBron James, Tom Brady, and Drew Brees as an investor in a professional pickleball team with his business partner, Rich Kleiman, via their Thirty Five Ventures firm. Under it, in March 2023, KD launched a flagship project "The Boardroom" that covers all these ventures and also provides news coverage.
<h2 class="jsx-cb26a7af5694ead9" style="text-align: center">Kevin Durant's major achievements and awards</h2>
2× NBA champion (2017, 2018)

2× NBA Finals MVP (2017, 2018)

NBA Most Valuable Player (2014)

13× NBA All-Star (2010–2019, 2021–2023)

2× NBA All-Star Game MVP (2012, 2019)

6× All-NBA First Team (2010–2014, 2018)

4× All-NBA Second Team (2016, 2017, 2019, 2022)

NBA Rookie of the Year (2008)

NBA All-Rookie First Team (2008)

4× NBA scoring champion (2010–2012, 2014)

2× 50–40–90 club (2013, 2023)

NBA 75th Anniversary Team

Consensus national college player of the year (2007)

Consensus first-team All-American (2007)

Big 12 Player of the Year (2007)

No. 35 retired by Texas Longhorns

FIBA World Championship MVP (2010)

3× USA Basketball Male Athlete of the Year (2010, 2016, 2021)

McDonald's All-American Game MVP (2006)

First-team Parade All-American (2006)

Second-team Parade All-American (2005)

&nbsp;

&nbsp;
<h2 class="jsx-cb26a7af5694ead9" style="text-align: center">Kevin Durant's contract details</h2>
In 2021, Kevin Durant signed a four-year $194.22 million contract extension with the Brooklyn Nets with an annual average salary of over $48 million. After earning over $42 million last year, KD is all set to earn over $46.4 million over the next season, having moved to the Phoenix Suns. 
<h2 class="jsx-cb26a7af5694ead9" style="text-align: center">Kevin Durant's shoe deals</h2>
Kevin Durant and Nike have signed a lifetime contract, making him the third NBA player to sign such a deal. Michael Jordan and LeBron James are the other two. This partnership includes footwear, apparel, and a philanthropic collaboration that focuses on grassroots basketball. His deal with Nike also includes a $50 million retirement package. KD's relationship with Nike dates back to 2007, during which they released 15 different shoes. The 13-time All-Star has also teased a 16th pair.
<h2 class="jsx-cb26a7af5694ead9" style="text-align: center">Kevin Durant's charity and foundation</h2>
Kevin Durant is a philanthropist. He founded the Kevin Durant Charity Foundation in 2013. The foundation aims to help youth from low-income backgrounds across the country and internationally as well. He is also a major contributor to different charities like Tulsa Dream Center, Boys and Girls Club, American Red Cross, GiveDirectly, Positive Tommorw, and the Kevin Durant Basketball Facility for Men. He reportedly donated $1 million to the Red Cross for its tornado relief fund and $3 million to the University of Texas to help its basketball program.
<h2 class="jsx-cb26a7af5694ead9" style="text-align: center">Kevin Durant's car collection</h2>
Kevin Durant rides in style and has an impressive car collection worth over $4 million. Notably, one car alone is worth more than half of his entire collection: the 1966 Ford GT40 which is worth an estimated $2.5 million. It is one of only 105 models ever made. Also, Durant has been spotted multiple times driving a Ferrari California, which was priced at $200,000. He also owns a Lamborghini Aventador Roadster, Rolls-Royce Phantom, etc.
<h2 class="jsx-cb26a7af5694ead9" style="text-align: center">Kevin Durant's house</h2>
Kevin Durant not only drives in style; he lives in style as well. Durant either bought or rented mansions whenever he moved to a different team. In 2021, KD reportedly purchased a mansion worth $15.6 million located in Hidden Hills, California. The property is 10,000 square feet and sits on 1.8 acres of land with all the amenities one can expect in a luxury mansion.
<h2 class="jsx-cb26a7af5694ead9">Kevin Durant's social media accounts</h2>
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Instagram</td>
<td><a class="jsx-2b55705d932ea6e9" href="https://www.instagram.com/easymoneysniper/?hl=en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">@easymoneysniper</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Twitter</td>
<td><a class="jsx-2b55705d932ea6e9" href="https://twitter.com/kdtrey5?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">@KDTrey5</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Facebook</td>
<td><a class="jsx-2b55705d932ea6e9" href="https://www.facebook.com/KevinDurant/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">@KevinDurant</a></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
&nbsp;
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Full Name</td>
<td>Kevin Wayne Durant</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Popular Name</td>
<td>Kevin Durant</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Birth Date</td>
<td>September 29, 1988</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Birth Place</td>
<td>Washington, D.C.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Height</td>
<td>6' 10" (2.08 m)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Weight</td>
<td>104 kg</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Parents</td>
<td>Wanda Durant and Wayne Pratt</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Siblings</td>
<td>Brianna, Tony, and Rayvonne</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nationality</td>
<td>American</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ethnicity</td>
<td>African American</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Net Worth</td>
<td>$200 Million</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Salary</td>
<td>$42 Million</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Relationship/Marital Status</td>
<td>N/A</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Children</td>
<td>None</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Profession</td>
<td>Basketball player</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Team</td>
<td>Phoenix Suns</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Rings</td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

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Established in 1968, the Phoenix Suns competes in the Western Conference as a member of the Pacific Division. In their overall 56 seasons till now, the Suns have made 32 playoff appearances. The franchise has won three conference titles (1976, 1993, and 2021). However, the team always fell short of having the glorious championship ring. With new investments and the newly formed Big Three, the Suns are one of the strongest contenders in the division.?
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Season</td>
<td>Playoff Appearances</td>
<td>Conference Titles</td>
<td>NBA Championships</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1968-2023</td>
<td>32</td>
<td>3 (1976, 1993, 2021)</td>
<td>0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h2>Franchise History and Ownership</h2>
The franchise began as an expansion team. The first few years were mired with mediocrity. Suns finished their first year at 16-66, missing the playoffs. Critics doubted the success of Phoenix as an NBA market, but the franchise grew rapidly in the country. Their trip to the NBA finals finally ended in 1976 against Bill Russell?s<a href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/category/nba/boston-celtics/"> Boston Celtics</a>. The Suns pushed the series to six games. In a buzzer-beating shot, the Celtics ultimately won the championship. After coming this close to the finals, the franchise started to rebuild around Walter Davis and also acquired Kevin Johnson in 1988. With Johnson, the Suns reached the playoffs for thirteen consecutive appearances and remained a title contender throughout the 1990s in the Charles Berkley era.?

<a href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/category/nba/phoenix-suns/">The Suns</a> made it into the finals again but lost to the<a href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/category/nba/chicago-bulls/"> Chicago Bulls</a>. Berkley was named the MVP in the 1992?93 season.?

Rankings got slightly better in the playoff games in the 1990s. But front office unrest and Barkley's strained relationship with Jerry Colangelo led to his trade to Houston which also marked a new era in the franchise. The Suns drafted Steve Nash in 1996, but he initially played a supporting role behind Jason Kidd and Kevin Johnson. The team could only go far in qualifying for the playoffs.?

&nbsp;
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Player</td>
<td>Position</td>
<td>Induction Year</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Charles Barkley</td>
<td>Forward</td>
<td>2006</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Gail Goodrich</td>
<td>Guard</td>
<td>1996</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Connie Hawkins</td>
<td>Forward-Center</td>
<td>1992</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Grant Hill</td>
<td>Forward</td>
<td>2018</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dennis Johnson</td>
<td>Guard</td>
<td>2010</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Gus Johnson</td>
<td>Forward-Center</td>
<td>2010</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jason Kidd</td>
<td>Guard</td>
<td>2018</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Steve Nash</td>
<td>Guard</td>
<td>20181</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Shaquille O?Neal</td>
<td>Center</td>
<td>2016</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Charlie Scott</td>
<td>Guard-Forward</td>
<td>2018</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Paul Westphal</td>
<td>Guard-Forward</td>
<td>2019</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
&nbsp;

The Suns had a fantastic 2004-05 season, finishing with the best record in the league and Nash winning the MVP award. In the 2005 playoffs, they made it to the Western Conference finals but lost to the Spurs. The team remained a strong contender. They had a 15-game win streak and a 17-game win streak during the 2006-07 season but again lost in the Conference finals.

In the next season, the franchise finished with a 55-27 record but was eliminated later in the first round.?

&nbsp;

The Suns made the playoffs 10 times during former owner Robert Sarver's 18-year tenure. Ishbia brothers Mat and Justin purchased the majority stakes from Sarver in 2022. The deal is marked as the most expensive in NBA history, at $4 billion. Here is a breakdown of Ownership history, throughout the years.?
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Year</td>
<td>Owner(s)</td>
<td>General Manager</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1968-1972</td>
<td>Richard Bloch and Karl Eller</td>
<td>Jerry Colangelo</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1972-1988</td>
<td>Karl Eller</td>
<td>Jerry Colangelo</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1988-2004</td>
<td>Jerry Colangelo</td>
<td>Jerry Colangelo</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2004-2010</td>
<td>Robert Sarver</td>
<td>Steve Kerr</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2010-2012</td>
<td>Robert Sarver</td>
<td>Lance Blanks</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2012-2018</td>
<td>Robert Sarver</td>
<td>Ryan McDonough</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2018-2022</td>
<td>Robert Sarver</td>
<td>James Jones</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2023-Present</td>
<td>Mat Ishbia</td>
<td>James Jones</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h2>Top-paid players and 2023-24 roster</h2>
Phoenix's roster for the 2023-24 season has many new additions, like<a href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/tag/bradley-beal/"> Bradley Beal</a> and Jusuf Nurki?. The star-studded roster has the new big three in town and includes Booker, Durant, and Beal as three of the 500 players who are averaging at least 22 points per game.?

<a href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/tag/kevin-durant/">Kevin Durant</a> is not just the highest-paid on the team but also the second-highest-paid this season. His annual salary is $47,649,433.?

Beal is the second richest in the team. He is receiving the max contract worth $251 million that he signed with the Wizards. He is expected to earn more than $150M in his next three seasons. For this season, his base salary is $46,741,590 per year.

<a href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/tag/devin-booker/">Devin Booker</a> signed a five-year, $158.25 million Supermax contract extension with the Suns in 2018. The contract began in the 2019-20 season, and Booker is currently in the fourth year of the deal. He is scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent in 2024.?

The newest addition, Nurkic, is a part of the multi-team deal that saw the departure of DeAndre Ayton to the Blazers. Nurkic is in his second-year max a-year extension worth over $70M. His average salary this year would be $17.5 million per year.
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Player</td>
<td>Position</td>
<td>Annual Salary</td>
<td>Contract Type</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Bradley Beal</td>
<td>SG</td>
<td>$50,203,930</td>
<td>5 yr $251,019,650 MAX</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Devin Booker</td>
<td>SG</td>
<td>$55,664,000</td>
<td>4 yr $222,656,000 S-MAX</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kevin Durant</td>
<td>SF</td>
<td>$48,554,830</td>
<td>4 yr $194,219,320 MAX</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jusuf Nurkic</td>
<td>C</td>
<td>$17,500,000</td>
<td>4 yr $70,000,000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nassir Little</td>
<td>SF</td>
<td>$7,000,000</td>
<td>4 yr $28,000,000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Grayson Allen</td>
<td>SG</td>
<td>$9,350,000</td>
<td>2 yr $18,700,000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Keon Johnson</td>
<td>SG</td>
<td>$3,129,323</td>
<td>4 yr $12,517,291</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Eric Gordon</td>
<td>SG</td>
<td>$3,276,360</td>
<td>2 yr $6,552,719</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Josh Okogie</td>
<td>SG</td>
<td>$2,886,336</td>
<td>2 yr $5,772,671</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Damion Lee</td>
<td>SG</td>
<td>$2,686,788</td>
<td>2 yr $5,373,575</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Keita Bates-Diop</td>
<td>SF</td>
<td>$2,500,629</td>
<td>2 yr $5,001,258</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Yuta Watanabe</td>
<td>SF</td>
<td>$2,500,629</td>
<td>2 yr $5,001,258</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Drew Eubanks</td>
<td>C</td>
<td>$2,500,629</td>
<td>2 yr $5,001,258</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jordan Goodwin</td>
<td>PG</td>
<td>$1,640,080</td>
<td>3 yr $4,920,240</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ishmail Wainright</td>
<td>SF</td>
<td>$1,201374</td>
<td>2 yr $2.402747</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Chimezie Metu</td>
<td>C</td>
<td>$2.346614</td>
<td>1 yr $2.346614</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Bol Bol Bol</td>
<td>PF</td>
<td>$2.165000</td>
<td>1 year, $2.165000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
&nbsp;

Phoenix Suns

Established in 1968, the Phoenix Suns competes in the Western Conference as a member of the Pacific Division. In their overall 56 seasons till now, the Suns have made 32 playoff appearances. The franchise has won three conference titles (1976, 1993, and 2021). However, the team always fell short of having the glorious championship ring. With new investments and the newly formed Big Three, the Suns are one of the strongest contenders in the division.?  Season Playoff Appearances Conference Titles NBA Championships  1968-2023 32 3 (1976, 1993, 2021) 0  Franchise History and Ownership The franchise began as an expansion team. The first few years were mired with mediocrity. Suns finished their first year at 16-66, missing the playoffs. Critics doubted the success of Phoenix as an NBA market, but the franchise grew rapidly in the country. Their trip to the NBA finals finally ended in 1976 against Bill Russell?s Boston Celtics. The Suns pushed the series to six games. In a buzzer-beating shot, the Celtics ultimately won the championship. After coming this close to the finals, the franchise started to rebuild around Walter Davis and also acquired Kevin Johnson in 1988. With Johnson, the Suns reached the playoffs for thirteen consecutive appearances and remained a title contender throughout the 1990s in the Charles Berkley era.? The Suns made it into the finals again but lost to the Chicago Bulls. Berkley was named the MVP in the 1992?93 season.? Rankings got slightly better in the playoff games in the 1990s. But front office unrest and Barkley&#8217;s strained relationship with Jerry Colangelo led to his trade to Houston which also marked a new era in the franchise. The Suns drafted Steve Nash in 1996, but he initially played a supporting role behind Jason Kidd and Kevin Johnson. The team could only go far in qualifying for the playoffs.? &nbsp;  Player Position Induction Year  Charles Barkley Forward 2006  Gail Goodrich Guard 1996  Connie Hawkins Forward-Center 1992  Grant Hill Forward 2018  Dennis Johnson Guard 2010  Gus Johnson Forward-Center 2010  Jason Kidd Guard 2018  Steve Nash Guard 20181  Shaquille O?Neal Center 2016  Charlie Scott Guard-Forward 2018  Paul Westphal Guard-Forward 2019  &nbsp; The Suns had a fantastic 2004-05 season, finishing with the best record in the league and Nash winning the MVP award. In the 2005 playoffs, they made it to the Western Conference finals but lost to the Spurs. The team remained a strong contender. They had a 15-game win streak and a 17-game win streak during the 2006-07 season but again lost in the Conference finals. In the next season, the franchise finished with a 55-27 record but was eliminated later in the first round.? &nbsp; The Suns made the playoffs 10 times during former owner Robert Sarver&#8217;s 18-year tenure. Ishbia brothers Mat and Justin purchased the majority stakes from Sarver in 2022. The deal is marked as the most expensive in NBA history, at $4 billion. Here is a breakdown of Ownership history, throughout the years.?  Year Owner(s) General Manager  1968-1972 Richard Bloch and Karl Eller Jerry Colangelo  1972-1988 Karl Eller Jerry Colangelo  1988-2004 Jerry Colangelo Jerry Colangelo  2004-2010 Robert Sarver Steve Kerr  2010-2012 Robert Sarver Lance Blanks  2012-2018 Robert Sarver Ryan McDonough  2018-2022 Robert Sarver James Jones  2023-Present Mat Ishbia James Jones  Top-paid players and 2023-24 roster Phoenix&#8217;s roster for the 2023-24 season has many new additions, like Bradley Beal and Jusuf Nurki?. The star-studded roster has the new big three in town and includes Booker, Durant, and Beal as three of the 500 players who are averaging at least 22 points per game.? Kevin Durant is not just the highest-paid on the team but also the second-highest-paid this season. His annual salary is $47,649,433.? Beal is the second richest in the team. He is receiving the max contract worth $251 million that he signed with the Wizards. He is expected to earn more than $150M in his next three seasons. For this season, his base salary is $46,741,590 per year. Devin Booker signed a five-year, $158.25 million Supermax contract extension with the Suns in 2018. The contract began in the 2019-20 season, and Booker is currently in the fourth year of the deal. He is scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent in 2024.? The newest addition, Nurkic, is a part of the multi-team deal that saw the departure of DeAndre Ayton to the Blazers. Nurkic is in his second-year max a-year extension worth over $70M. His average salary this year would be $17.5 million per year.  Player Position Annual Salary Contract Type  Bradley Beal SG $50,203,930 5 yr $251,019,650 MAX  Devin Booker SG $55,664,000 4 yr $222,656,000 S-MAX  Kevin Durant SF $48,554,830 4 yr $194,219,320 MAX  Jusuf Nurkic C $17,500,000 4 yr $70,000,000  Nassir Little SF $7,000,000 4 yr $28,000,000  Grayson Allen SG $9,350,000 2 yr $18,700,000  Keon Johnson SG $3,129,323 4 yr $12,517,291  Eric Gordon SG $3,276,360 2 yr $6,552,719  Josh Okogie SG $2,886,336 2 yr $5,772,671  Damion Lee SG $2,686,788 2 yr $5,373,575  Keita Bates-Diop SF $2,500,629 2 yr $5,001,258  Yuta Watanabe SF $2,500,629 2 yr $5,001,258  Drew Eubanks C $2,500,629 2 yr $5,001,258  Jordan Goodwin PG $1,640,080 3 yr $4,920,240  Ishmail Wainright SF $1,201374 2 yr $2.402747  Chimezie Metu C $2.346614 1 yr $2.346614  Bol Bol Bol PF $2.165000 1 year, $2.165000  &nbsp;