UPDATE: Collin Gillespie is making headlines as a frontrunner for the Sixth Man of the Year award, solidifying his status during an extraordinary season with the Phoenix Suns. Just one season after playing in the G League, Gillespie’s performance has transformed the Suns into a playoff contender.
Latest stats confirm Gillespie’s impact: averaging 14.0 points, 5.1 assists, and 4.1 rebounds per game, while maintaining a remarkable shooting split of 44% from the field, 43% from three, and 87% from the free-throw line. With a true shooting percentage of 60.1%, he is efficiently contributing on both ends of the court.
As of now, Gillespie has appeared in 33 games, with 14 starts and 19 games coming off the bench. He still meets the eligibility criteria for the award, but his starting role may be threatened by the anticipated return of teammate Jalen Green.
Gillespie’s defensive prowess is equally impressive. He averages 1.4 steals per game, showcasing his ability to disrupt opponents despite his size. His dynamic shooting ability makes him a constant threat; whether he’s pulling up for a three or driving to the hoop, Gillespie finds ways to contribute to his team’s success.
“Collin Gillespie makes winning plays. He is a winner. Plain and simple,”
said a Suns official, underscoring his crucial role in the team’s success.
However, Gillespie faces stiff competition in the race for the award. Keldon Johnson and Ajay Mitchell are also strong candidates, both playing pivotal roles for their teams. Other contenders include Jaime Jaquez Jr. and Reed Sheppard, adding depth to an already competitive field.
The award is not the only recognition Gillespie could receive; he is also in contention for Most Improved Player of the Year. His remarkable development has been a game-changer for the Suns, who have significantly exceeded expectations this season.
As the regular season progresses, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how Gillespie adapts to potential changes in his role. The Suns’ upcoming matchups will be critical, especially with Green’s return on the horizon. Gillespie’s impact on the court is clear: without him, the Suns would likely struggle to maintain their current momentum.
The verdict is still out on how the Sixth Man of the Year race will unfold, but one thing is certain: Collin Gillespie’s breakout season has made him a name to watch as the playoffs approach. The basketball community is buzzing, and fans are ready to see if he can capitalize on this momentum.
