The Phoenix Suns have signed free agent guard Jaden Shackelford, according to HoopsHype, adding another perimeter option to their backcourt rotation.
Shackelford, 24, arrives after a strong season in the G League with the Valley Suns, where he averaged 17.5 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 3.0 assists across 34 games. He connected on 33 percent of his three-pointers while attempting more than nine per contest.
The 6-foot-3 guard went undrafted in 2022 out of Alabama but has steadily built his profile through the Oklahoma City Blue and Phoenix’s affiliate. In 2024, he was part of the Blue squad that won the G League championship.
Shackelford briefly signed an Exhibit 10 deal with Phoenix last fall before being waived, eventually rejoining the organization through its developmental program. His scoring consistency with the Valley Suns earned him another opportunity at the NBA level.
Over his two previous G League seasons, Shackelford showed growth as a high-volume shooter. He posted 13.1 points per game in 2023-24 with Oklahoma City and 15.0 points per game as a rookie in 2022-23.
In limited NBA preseason and training camp action, Shackelford has displayed quick shooting mechanics and the ability to stretch defenses, qualities that align with Phoenix’s offensive system.
The Suns’ roster already features backcourt pieces like Devin Booker, Jalen Green, Grayson Allen, and Dillon Brooks, but Shackelford’s addition offers insurance and floor-spacing depth.
Phoenix head coach Jordan Ott has emphasized shooting and versatility throughout the offseason, with Shackelford fitting the profile of a guard who can come off the bench and provide instant scoring.
The signing also reflects the Suns’ commitment to developing talent within their system. With multiple two-way players already in place, Shackelford will compete for minutes on a roster that mixes established stars with younger contributors.
