Dillon Brooks has proven indispensable to the Phoenix Suns, prompting the organization to sign him to a three-year extension. This move comes despite the Suns currently operating well beyond the NBA salary cap of $165 million. According to Spotrac, the Suns’ payroll stands at $240.9 million, placing them significantly above both the cap and the league’s second financial apron.
Dillon Brooks proved so valuable to the Phoenix Suns this past season, the extended him for three more seasons. (Photo by Chris Coduto/Getty Images)
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Because the Suns acquired Brooks from Houston last year, they retained his Bird rights. This allowed the club to extend him for three years at a total value of $73 million—up to 140% of his previous salary—without the need to clear cap space.
Brooks has become a vital leader for the team, characterized by his gritty playing style and on-court presence. Management has sought to pair him with franchise cornerstone Devin Booker for several more seasons to maintain this momentum.
“It makes you feel comfortable,” Brooks stated during a recent media session. “It gives you a sense of trust. I felt that trust from the moment the trade happened. That’s why I played so hard and why signing this extension to stay with such a great organization was an easy decision.”
Mat Ishbia Navigates Financial Complexity
The extension comes amidst broader financial discussions regarding Suns and Mercury majority owner Mat Ishbia. His company, United Wholesale Mortgage (UWM), recently reported a significant capital requirement to offset losses resulting from derivatives bets on interest rates. While UWM stated these business fluctuations will not impact the operations of the Suns or Mercury, the team’s financial structure remains under observation.
Regarding the Brooks deal, the Suns utilized a complex salary match on July 6, 2025, when they traded Kevin Durant to the Rockets for Brooks and Jalen Green. This move required an equal salary swap to manage the cap implications efficiently.
Under the terms of the new agreement, Brooks will earn $22.5 million this season, $24.3 million in 2028-29, and $26.1 million in 2029-30, before becoming a free agent at age 35.
“Dillon’s toughness, competitiveness, and work ethic epitomize the Suns’ DNA,” said Suns General Manager Brian Gregory. “He plays with an intensity that sets the tone for our team and raises the level of everyone around him. We are excited to see him continue to grow within this community.”
A New Era for the Suns
Following a difficult postseason where they were swept by the Oklahoma City Thunder, the Suns have undergone significant roster and leadership changes. After a series of front-office shifts that saw the introduction of Jordan Ott and Brian Gregory, the team has moved toward a transitional phase focused on rebuilding the core.
Despite the roster overhaul—which included trading Durant and managing the cap hit from Bradley Beal—the Suns surprised observers by finishing the recent season with a 45-37 record and securing a playoff berth.
“We wanted to get to the playoffs, and we did,” Brooks said, reflecting on his resilience after missing 18 games due to a hand fracture. “Even with new additions like Miles Bridges and Luke Kennard, we are building the foundation of this transition. We are establishing chemistry and camaraderie for the future.”
While acknowledging the loss of contributors like Grayson Allen and Royce O’Neale, Brooks remains optimistic about the team’s direction and the stability provided by his new contract.
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