Phoenix Suns guard Collin Gillespie opened up about his “Villain Jr.” nickname, highlighting the competitive environment with teammate Dillon Brooks.
“It started as a joke. Then people kind of took it and ran with it. But I appreciate how hard Dillon works and what he does. So I don’t take it lightly, and I don’t take it for granted,” Gillespie told Mark Medina of RG.
Gillespie has carried that competitive edge into his 2025–26 season, averaging 13.4 points, 5.0 assists, and 3.8 rebounds in 26.8 minutes over 22 games. He credits consistent preparation and summer workouts for his readiness.
“I’m just staying ready and staying in the gym last season, this season and this summer. I get a ton of shots and some live reps with guys guarding me. That has all been really helpful,” he said.
The 26-year-old guard stressed that his focus remains on team success rather than personal accolades. “I don’t really focus on the individual stuff. I’m worried about winning basketball games. Everything else comes with winning and team success,” Gillespie explained.
He described his approach to the Suns’ backcourt, noting his comfort in creating opportunities for teammates. “I try to take some pressure off of [Devin Booker] and alleviate some of that pressure. Then when he’s on the floor, I try to make it easier any way that I can for him,” Gillespie said.
Gillespie also highlighted his leadership development, pointing to team bonding and practice routines during the offseason in Flagstaff, Arizona. He played pickup and golf with Booker, noting both were among the team’s top golfers. “It was good. I think I beat him on the front, and he beat me on the back,” he said.
The guard reflected on overcoming a fractured left leg, tibia and fibula break, and dislocated ankle early in his career. “It gave me perspective on the game and life itself. I don’t take anything for granted. I appreciate being able to play in games and be on the floor,” he said.
With the Suns sitting at 13-9, Gillespie is aiming to help the team build toward playoff contention. He emphasized health and consistency as keys to success: “Once we get our guys back, we can be as consistent as we possibly can with what we do every day. If we continue to play hard and compete on every possession, I think good things will happen.”
