Talk about a full-circle moment! Koby Brea went from admiring Devin Booker to suiting up alongside him for the Phoenix Suns. This rookie’s dream has officially come true, but what does it mean for their dynamic on the court? Dive into their shared Kentucky roots and the surprising parallels in their shooting prowess. Can Brea follow in Booker’s footsteps?
In a fascinating turn of events, former Kentucky Wildcats Koby Brea and Devin Booker are set to become NBA teammates with the Phoenix Suns, a pairing Brea admits he once considered an impossible dream. Despite an age difference of just six years, their professional paths have diverged significantly, with Booker entering his eleventh season as an established star and Brea embarking on his rookie campaign.
Growing up in Washington Heights, NY, Brea watched Booker’s career unfold from afar, making the reality of sharing a locker room and training facility feel surreal. He expressed a sense of wonder at the prospect of observing Booker’s daily routine, work ethic, and hearing firsthand stories of his dedication, underscoring the profound impact this mentorship opportunity presents.
Beyond their shared alma mater, both players boast striking similarities as 6-foot-6 shooting guards. Their prowess for outside shot-making has been a defining characteristic of their game, positioning them among the elite in their craft. This foundational commonality provides a unique starting point for Brea as he transitions to the professional level.
Looking at their collegiate careers, Brea posted impressive numbers in his final season (2024-25), averaging 11.6 points and shooting an exceptional 43.5 percent from deep on 5.9 attempts. A decade earlier, Booker, in his lone season (2014-15), averaged 10 points with a 41.1 percent success rate from beyond the arc on 3.7 attempts, showcasing a shared aptitude for long-range efficiency.
Their NBA Draft stories, however, present a contrast. Booker was a 13th overall pick in 2015, not initially pegged as the future four-time All-Star he became but rather as a pure shooter. Brea, coming off five collegiate years, was selected 41st overall in this year’s draft, also primarily identified for his shooting ability, offering a parallel yet distinct entry into the league.
Booker’s adaptability was evident from the start, as he quickly adjusted to the NBA game, averaging 13.8 points in his rookie season and finishing fourth in the Rookie of the Year race. His journey exemplifies the potential for growth and evolution beyond an initial scouting report, a valuable lesson for any newcomer.
While expectations for Brea’s inaugural year may not mirror Booker’s immediate statistical impact, the unparalleled opportunity to train alongside and learn from his model for success every day is invaluable. Booker’s experience and guidance will serve as a continuous source of inspiration and practical knowledge throughout Brea’s rookie season.
Fans eagerly await Brea’s preseason debut with the Suns on October 3rd, where he will showcase the skills that earned him an NBA roster spot. His choice of jersey number 14, his long-standing passion for basketball, and his palpable excitement for the upcoming season are just a few aspects that will undoubtedly endear him to the Phoenix faithful.
