Suns become last NBA team to add G League franchise

Field Level Media|published: Wed 14th February, 12:06 2024

Nov 8, 2023; Chicago, Illinois, USA; A general view of a basketball on floor during an NBA game between the Phoenix Suns and the Chicago Bulls at United Center. credits: Jamie Sabau-USA TODAY Sports

The Phoenix Suns will launch an NBA G League franchise in 2024-25, marking the first time all 30 NBA teams will have an affiliate in the minor league circuit.

"Bringing a G League team to Phoenix was one of my first priorities as owner," said Suns and Phoenix Mercury (WNBA) owner Mat Ishbia. "Adding a G League team creates another area for us to compete to be the best and will be a vital tool to help develop players and coaches. Just like the Suns and Mercury, our G League team will serve as a community asset and make a positive impact on and off the court."

The Suns launched an online contest Wednesday to name the team by submitting entries through Feb. 28. The team will play in the Phoenix metropolitan area, with a specific location to be announced in the spring.

"We are honored to welcome Mat Ishbia and the Phoenix Suns to the NBA G League, and are thrilled to achieve our long-stated goal that each of the 30 NBA teams has an NBA G League affiliate," said NBA G League President Shareef Abdur-Rahim. "The NBA G League has never been more valuable to NBA teams than it is today, and the Suns' investment only reinforces that reality. I can't wait to join fans in the Valley next season to enjoy the unique brand of NBA G League basketball."

The G League, founded in 2001, will expand to a record 32 teams. That includes the non-affiliated Capitanes of Mexico City and the G League Ignite, a Nevada-based development squad for elite NBA prospects.

—Field Level Media