Grayson Allen extension with Suns gets ‘selfless’ praise

Grayson Allen shot his way to a starting role for the Phoenix Suns and ultimately, a four-year, $70 million contract extension he signed on Tuesday.

Allen, who led the NBA in 3-point percentage (46.1), found an important role with a Phoenix team that is looking to win its first-ever championship.

“I knew I wanted to be here,” Allen said. “So that kind of out-weighed the fact of trying to wonder what’s out there. Mat, James and Josh gave me an offer that I felt like was worth it to wait and not wonder…I’m very happy that I’m here and that I’m going to be here a little longer.”

Allen’s contract ensures he will be on the Suns’ payroll for the 2024-25 season. Jones, who was made available to the media for a rare in-season conference, explained why Allen is a player “you bet on every time.”

“I think is a testimony to this group to where guys sacrifice for each other, they make each other better,” Jones said. “They stay connected, they compete, and they play the game the right way. And it makes it a fun atmosphere. So for me, I’m just excited we get to keep the best shooter in the league with us.

“He’s one of us. He’s one of us, right? Like I said before, selfless teammate, a guy that’s played big games, played big minutes for some really good teams. He’s played with the best, and everywhere he’s been, he’s won. The best players on all those teams raved, they gush about the type of player he is but more importantly, the type of teammate he is. So I was excited that we got him, and I think you see why we love him.”

Here is the gist of what Jones also explained following Tuesday’s practice at the Verizon 5G Performance Center.

Kevin Young departure ‘bittersweet’

Tuesday, Phoenix associate head coach for the last three seasons, Kevin Young, reportedly reached an agreement to become the next head coach for BYU basketball.

Young is the highest-paid assistant in the NBA and is seen as an offensive mastermind.

“We’ve spent a lot of time together,” Jones said. “He’s been instrumental in what we’ve built here in Phoenix, but it’s an opportunity for him to show the world how great of a coach he is. They’re extremely fortunate to have him. It’s bittersweet.”