One Former, Current Suns Nominated for Teammate of the Year Award
The Phoenix Suns have some notable names on the roster, as their star-studded lineups include guys such as Chris Paul, Kevin Durant and Devin Booker among others.
They've all accomplished plenty in their careers, but one current (and one former) Suns player is up for an award.
Phoenix shooting guard Damion Lee and Brooklyn Nets forward Mikal Bridges were one of 12 players nominated for the Twyman-Stokes Teammate of the Year Award.
"The award honors the player deemed the best teammate based on selfless play, on- and off-the-court leadership as a mentor and role model to other players in and around the NBA, as well as commitment and dedication to the player’s team," said the NBA in their news release.
Other players nominated were: Darius Garland (Cleveland Cavaliers), Udonis Haslem (Miami Heat), Jrue Holiday (Milwaukee Bucks), Derrick Rose (New York Knicks), Grant Williams (Boston Celtics), Harrison Barnes (Sacramento Kings), Stephen Curry (Golden State Warriors), Aaron Gordon (Denver Nuggets), Jaren Jackson Jr. (Memphis Grizzlies) and Damian Lillard (Portland Trail Blazers).
“It’s special,” Lee told Duane Rankin of the Arizona Republic. “If you look at the guys on that list. Jrue, Steph, Dame, Mikal, D-Rose, guys that are well respected and known around the league as great dudes, first and foremost. Even just to be mentioned with those guys is huge and special.”
Suns point guard Cameron Payne also spoke with Rankin on Lee/Bridges getting the nomination.
“They’re people guys,” Payne said. “They’re the kind of guys who bring that same energy every day. Never too low, never too high. They kind of keep the gym inspired. D-Lee plays music every time he come in the gym. He’s like a voice of peace. Mikal, he’s always playful.”