Devin Booker's New Suns Rival Prepares for NBA Season

Suns rookie Koa Peat is looking to make a name for himself in the NBA, and he's got his sights set on playing alongside one of the league's best players: Devin Booker.

What happened?

Peat, a 19-year-old forward, averaged 16.8 points on 51% shooting in four Summer League games, helping the Suns finish with a 3-2 record. The young player credits his experience at Arizona for preparing him for the transition to the NBA, citing the fast-paced style of play and the opportunity to learn from top-notch coaches and teammates.

Why it matters for Devin Booker

As Peat looks to build on his Summer League performance, he's eager to learn from Booker and improve his skills. "Just playing off him," Peat said in an interview, "Trying to make him better as a player. Doing the little things. Creating for him and just learning from him. He's one of the best players in the league. He's a legend."

What comes next?

Peat plans to continue working in advance of training camp, which is likely to start sometime in September. "Taking it one day at a time," he said, "Getting better every day. Not taking any of these days for granted. Staying in the gym. After this, I'm going to go back to Phoenix. Get to work. Stay in the gym. Try to become the best version of myself."

Peat's dedication to his craft is clear, and with Booker as a role model, he's got a great opportunity to learn and grow as a player. As the Suns prepare for the new season, fans will be watching to see how Peat develops and how he fits into the team's plans.

The Suns rested Khaman Maluach, Rasheer Fleming, Darius Brown II, and Peat for the team's final Summer League game in Las Vegas. Peat credited his one-and-done season at Arizona for preparing him for the transition from college to the NBA in terms of pace of play.

"I feel like from a young age, I try to play to my own pace," the 19-year-old Peat said. "Feel out the game with my IQ. When to go fast, when to go slow. Pick and choose when to speed it up a little bit, but I feel like the pace of the game, it's been a smooth transition for me."

Peat's experience at Arizona was a valuable one, and he's eager to apply the lessons he learned to his time in the NBA. With Booker as a mentor, he's got a great chance to succeed and make a name for himself in the league.

The Suns' Summer League performance was a promising sign for the team, and with Peat and Booker leading the way, fans are excited to see what the new season will bring.