Welcome to the 2024-25 Phoenix Suns Season Preview series, where we embark on a comprehensive journey through the roster. In this series, we’ll break down individual player previews, offering a detailed look at each member of the Suns’ lineup. We’ll recap their performance from last season, highlighting key moments and areas of growth, and analyze how their skills, experience, and roles will contribute to the team’s championship aspirations.

Whether it’s the seasoned veterans or the rising stars, each player has a unique role in what could be a defining season for the franchise. Join us as we explore the potential and challenges that lie ahead for the Suns in their pursuit of basketball glory.

---

Oso Ighodaro

Center, 6’10”, 222 pounds, 22 years old, Rookie

With the starting center position secured by Jusuf Nurkic, and Mason Plumlee solidifying his role as the primary backup, newly acquired Oso Ighodaro will strive to carve out playing time in the Suns’ rotation. Competing against two established veterans, Oso will need to cut through the competition by showcasing the skills he displayed in the Summer League and his college days at Marquette, while continuing to elevate his game.

His unique style of play could either earn him valuable minutes off the bench or leave him watching from the sidelines all season. Let’s take a closer look at the Suns’ rookie.

---

Contract Details

Oso Ighodaro signed a 4-year, $7.9 million contract with the Phoenix Suns, which includes $5.4 million guaranteed and an average annual salary of $1.9 million. For the 2024-25 season, Ighodaro will earn a base salary of $1.2 million, with a matching cap hit and dead cap value.

---

Strengths & Weaknesses

Strength: Defense

This is where Oso truly shines — he’s a weak-side defender who uses his length to protect the rim, making him an excellent asset coming off the bench. His defense could be the spark that ignites the second unit, turning stops into fast breaks. Oso made a name for himself at Marquette, and his style of play seems primed to make the leap in the NBA. If you were a forward trying to score on him in college, you probably still have nightmares.

Stepping into a defensive role, Oso can slot into either the forward or center position, showing off the versatility he brings to the Suns in his rookie year. And let’s be honest, Suns fans, we all know defense has been a little like Bigfoot...everyone talks about it, but it’s rarely been seen. Oso could change that.

Expect him to swat away shots like he’s swatting flies at a summer BBQ, while his ability to switch between positions might give coach Budenholzer a reason to do a little happy dance. His energy off the bench will be contagious, and his hustle might just make him the guy fans cheer for every time he checks in. Just give him time, and don’t be surprised if you see him trending on Suns Twitter for throwing down a monster block or two!

The Push Floater!

This aspect of his game isn’t necessarily a strength or a weakness, it’s just part of who he is, and likely the first thing that comes to mind for many Suns fans when we think of Oso. His push-floater, while not aesthetically pleasing, was effective in college. However, in the Summer League, it was a different story. He struggled with it, which was disappointing to see, especially since it’s a shot he seems to take pride in.

It’s the kind of shot that can have fans pulling their hair out when it doesn’t fall. It can appear frantic and might even spark a sense of panic among us. But it could be something we’ll have to get used to this season. I’m curious to hear your thoughts—what do you think of his push-floater?

Weakness: Three-Point Shooting

Last season, Oso attempted only two three-pointers — the first time he ventured beyond the arc — highlighting a potential limitation in his offensive game. He tends to settle for midrange shots rather than attacking the basket, which could render him less effective on that end of the floor. His offensive style risks making him one-dimensional and, at times, a non-factor.

Meanwhile, with Jusuf Nurkic working on his three-point shot this offseason, the added versatility at the starting center position could further complicate Oso’s chances of earning significant minutes ahead of him. If Oso doesn’t expand his range or diversify his offense, he may find himself fighting an uphill battle for playing time.

---

One Key Factor

Oso can potentially be a versatile contributor to the Suns’ offense over time, while his defensive impact could be felt immediately. He has the tools to improve this season and provide a confident boost off the bench. I can already picture Suns broadcaster Eddie Johnson highlighting Oso’s confidence in a pregame show, because that’s what stands out about him. I can see it!

His strong work ethic and positive demeanor on the court will serve him well in the NBA. As the season progresses, the key will be whether he can continue to build his confidence, regardless of his minutes. Injuries or lineup changes could open up opportunities for him, so it’s crucial that he stays ready, plays his role, and remains positive.

He owns up to his game and walks you through his thinking in the video below.

---

Prediction

There are plenty of positive aspects to Oso’s game that I’ve highlighted throughout this article, but here’s the catch: I see this season as a learning experience for him. That’s not to say he won’t have moments to shine, but he’ll need time to grow as the season progresses. If one of the Suns’ bigs goes down with an injury, I wouldn’t be surprised if the team brings in a veteran to fill the gap. This isn’t a knock on Oso; he needs more time to develop.

By the end of the year, I expect him to become a fan favorite, thanks to his consistently positive attitude and effort when he’s on the court. His work ethic and willingness to embrace his role will likely earn him respect from both teammates and fans alike. With patience, he could eventually develop into a key contributor for the Suns.

---

Final Thoughts

He started early this summer in the lab and he will be the last to leave the gym at the end of this season. I guarantee it.

---

Read other 2024-25 Player Previews right here: