In a move that solidifies their commitment to their biggest star, Devin Booker signed a two-year contract extension with the Phoenix Suns, valued at $145 million, equivalent to over $810 million at the current exchange rate. The deal, finalized in Las Vegas on the evening of July 9, 2025, ensures the shooting guard the highest annual salary in NBA history, averaging $72.5 million per season, roughly $400 million yearly. The signing followed a meeting between Booker and Mat Ishbia, the Arizona franchise’s owner, cementing the player as the cornerstone of the team’s sporting project through the 2029-30 season. The decision reflects the organization’s confidence in the athlete’s talent and leadership, even after a challenging year for the team, which missed the playoffs.
Booker’s journey with the Suns, which began in 2015 when he was selected 13th overall in the draft, is marked by historic achievements. He became the franchise’s all-time leading scorer in 2025, with 16,452 points, surpassing legends like Walter Davis. Additionally, the 28-year-old has earned four All-Star Game appearances and two All-NBA selections, establishing himself as one of the league’s top talents. In the 2024-25 season, despite the team’s subpar collective performance of 36 wins and 46 losses, Booker posted impressive stats, averaging 25.6 points, 7.1 assists, and 4.1 rebounds per game.
- Highlights of Booker’s career:
- All-time leading scorer for the Suns with 16,452 points.
- Youngest player to score 70 points in a game against the Boston Celtics in 2017.
- Led the team to the NBA Finals in 2021, their first appearance in 28 years.
- Two Olympic gold medals with Team USA (2021 and 2024).
Booker’s new contract not only rewards his individual performance but also signals the Suns’ strategy to rebuild the team around their star player, even after significant roster and coaching changes.
THE PHOENIX SUNS ALL-TIME LEADING SCORER: DEVIN BOOKER. pic.twitter.com/8tVwj6fRtz
— Phoenix Suns (@Suns) February 4, 2025
Record-breaking contract and its financial implications
Devin Booker’s contract extension sets a new financial benchmark in the NBA. With an average annual salary of $72.5 million, he surpasses the previous record held by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Oklahoma City Thunder, who signed a $285 million extension averaging $71.25 million per year. Booker’s deal, added to the three years remaining on his current $220 million contract, totals $316 million through 2030. This amount reflects the Suns’ commitment to keeping their star as the face of the franchise for over a decade.
The contract, effective from the 2028-29 season, was structured to maintain the team’s financial competitiveness. With a projected salary cap of $200 million in 2028, Booker’s salary will account for about 36.3% of the team’s cap, a proportion expected to drop to 33% in 2029-30 due to an anticipated 10% annual cap increase. This approach allows the Suns to plan a competitive roster around their key player, despite the high payroll costs from the previous season, which was the highest in league history.
Roster changes and Suns’ rebuilding efforts
The 2024-25 season was challenging for the Phoenix Suns. Despite high expectations for the trio of Booker, Kevin Durant, and Bradley Beal, the team failed to replicate past successes, such as their 64-win campaign in 2021-22. Lack of chemistry, injuries, and tactical issues led to a disappointing 11th-place finish in the Western Conference. In response, the franchise underwent a significant overhaul.
One of the most impactful moves was trading Kevin Durant to the Houston Rockets in a seven-team deal, the largest in NBA history. In return, the Suns acquired players like Jalen Green and Dillon Brooks, along with draft picks. Bradley Beal’s potential buyout is also under consideration, which would leave Booker as the sole remnant of the former “Big Three.” These changes signal a new direction, focusing on a younger, more versatile roster around the shooting guard.
Booker’s role in franchise decisions
Beyond his on-court impact, Devin Booker has stood out for his off-court influence. During the hiring process for the new head coach, he actively participated in interviews with finalists, endorsing the selection of Jordan Ott, a former Cleveland Cavaliers assistant. Ott, who has ties to Michigan State University, Mat Ishbia’s alma mater, was named the team’s new head coach, bringing a fresh approach after Mike Budenholzer’s departure.
Booker was also involved in discussions about the Kevin Durant trade, showcasing his role as a leader and central figure in strategic decisions. This close relationship with the front office underscores the mutual trust between the player and the franchise, a rarity in the dynamic NBA market. His loyalty to Phoenix, expressed publicly in interviews, highlights his desire to stay with the team for his entire career, drawing comparisons to icons like Kobe Bryant and Dirk Nowitzki.
Stats defining the 2024-25 season
Booker’s most recent season reflected his consistency, even amid the Suns’ struggles. Playing 75 games, his highest total since 2016-17, he demonstrated physical durability. His averages of 25.6 points per game, with 46.1% field goal shooting, and a career-best 7.1 assists showcased his growth as a complete playmaker, creating opportunities for himself and teammates.
- Key stats from Booker’s 2024-25 season:
- 25.6 points per game, ninth straight season above 22 points.
- 7.1 assists, leading the team in playmaking.
- 46.1% field goal shooting.
- 33.2% three-point shooting, his lowest in five years.
- 0.9 steals per game, contributing defensively.
Despite solid numbers, Booker acknowledged the need for improvement, particularly after a loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder on April 9, 2025, when he admitted he failed to assert his leadership on the court as desired.
Career achievements and individual milestones
Since his NBA debut, Booker has amassed remarkable feats. At age 20, he became the youngest player to score 70 points in a single game against the Boston Celtics in 2017. Two years later, at 22, he was the youngest to record back-to-back 50-point games. In 2021, he led the Suns to the NBA Finals, a milestone after nearly three decades without a Finals appearance. His versatility also shone internationally, earning two Olympic gold medals with Team USA.
His 2022 season, when he was named to the All-NBA First Team, marked the peak of his career so far, with 26.8 points per game and a 64-win campaign for the Suns. These accomplishments cement his status as one of the league’s top shooting guards, alongside names like Luka Dončić and Jalen Brunson.
Franchise’s future planning
With Booker secured through 2030, the Suns are now focused on building a competitive roster. The addition of young players like Jalen Green and Duke pivot Khaman Maluach, selected in the 2025 draft, signals a commitment to emerging talent. The franchise also signed forward Isaiah Livers and wing CJ Huntley to two-way contracts, bolstering roster depth. Acquiring Charlotte Hornets pivot Mark Williams aims to strengthen the frontcourt, a weak spot last season.
General manager Brian Gregory expressed optimism about pairing Booker with Jalen Green, believing the duo can overcome the challenges faced by the previous star trio. The strategy includes regaining draft picks, such as the 10th overall in 2025, to add more young talent while seeking greater financial flexibility.
Booker’s legacy in Phoenix
Devin Booker is not only the Suns’ all-time leading scorer but also a symbol of loyalty and resilience. Drafted in 2015, he endured years of rebuilding, low-win seasons, and constant roster and coaching changes. Yet, he remained committed to the franchise, dismissing trade rumors and expressing his goal of winning a championship in Phoenix.
His impact extends beyond the court. Through his Starting 5 foundation, Booker has engaged in community projects in the Phoenix area, strengthening his bond with the city. His journey, marked by precocious records and leadership in critical moments, positions him as one of the greatest idols in franchise history, with potential for even greater achievements.
