Deandre Ayton expresses interest to play for the Phoenix Suns

Arizona Wildcat freshman sensation Deandre Ayton is moving onto the next chapter of his basketball career. He recently expressed interest in playing with the Phoenix Suns.

“It is important to go No.1.” That’s Deandre Ayton’s mindset and response when asked during the CBS Radio podcast, Tiki and Tierney, if it is important for him to go No.1 during the 2018 NBA Draft. It would shock many if he did not get chosen at the top based on his skill set and what he accomplished during his only college basketball season.

The last time their was an Arizona Wildcat that got chosen at the No.1 spot in the NBA was…wait, no one has. Ayton can become the first Wildcat to achieve that, another milestone set by the 7-footer. Others have been drafted in the Top 10, such as Lauri Markkanen by the Minnesota Timberwolves at the No.7 (and later being traded to the Chicago Bulls).

Being drafted at No.1 comes with a lot of expectations and pressure, but we all know Ayton can handle a little adversity. This past season as a Wildcat, he faced a lot of it, but did not phase him at all. If anything, it made him even a better player.

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Many knew Ayton would only be staying one year at Arizona, but he took full advantage during his time a Wildcat. He put on additional weight and muscle, ate right and worked on perfecting his craft to get himself ready for the NBA.

During the Tike and Tierney podcast, Ayton was asked if he looks at any of the current big men in the league and likes their style of play. One of those he mentioned was Joel Embiid of the Philadelphia 76ers.

Both him and Embiid have similar playing styles . They both are powerful big man that can shoot the ball both inside and out. Imagine those two in one-on-one, that would be fun to watch!

Ayton was also asked if there was any particular team he would be interested in playing for. He mention the Phoenix Suns:

Currently the Suns are last place in the NBA and are projected to be in the No.1 slot in the NBA Draft according to NBADraft.net mock draft. If Ayton were to get selected by the Suns, many Wildcat fans would make the drive up north to see their former Wildcat in action! The Atlanta Hawks, Memphis Grizzlies, Orlando Magic and Dallas Mavericks round out the top five teams in the draft lottery, which takes place May 15th.

The combination of Ayton and Devin Booker on the same team would be a force to be reckon. This past season, the Suns finished 13th in total rebounds per game and 21st in points per game. Having the addition of Ayton in their lineup would result in an increase in both categories and help the Suns win more games next year.

If you look at the top caliber teams in the NBA, the Golden State Warriors, Houston Rockets, Cleveland Cavaliers and Boston Celtics, they each have multiple NBA All-Star talent on their roster. The addition of Ayton to the Suns or any team that chooses him, would have themselves an immediate impact player and in position to make a post season run.

Must Read: Recruiting is a Priority for Arizona Basketball this Offseason

The 2018 NBA Draft is a little over two months away, but it’s never too early to start thinking about the possibilities for Ayton. Whichever team is lucky enough to pick him, he will go down as one the greats to play the game of basketball. The future of basketball is here. Time to Bear Down Ayton and show them what you are all about!