Devin Booker Reveals Heated Rookie Year Clash with Veteran PJ Tucker: A Moment of Tough Love and Inspiration
In a candid appearance on Lakers star D’Angelo Russell’s Backyard podcast, Phoenix Suns’ star Devin Booker shared a revealing and poignant story from his rookie year that highlighted the intense, yet supportive, environment that shaped his early career.
Drafted by the Suns as the 13th overall pick in the 2015 NBA Draft, Booker joined a team struggling with management issues and a lack of talent, missing the playoffs for five consecutive years prior to his arrival. Despite Booker’s obvious potential, the Suns continued their playoff drought for five more seasons, making the journey to success even more challenging for the young guard.
During the podcast, Booker recalled a specific practice session held at an open gym in Mexico City. The practice, attended by hundreds of fans, became the backdrop for a memorable and intense encounter with veteran Suns player PJ Tucker. “We got into it like we usually do. This is probably the most physical one. He comes in, soft head butts to my chin, so I had to get him off me real quick. They separated us,” Booker recounted.
The tension from practice lingered as the team headed back to the hotel, with Booker and Tucker taking separate buses. Upon arriving at the hotel, Booker encountered Tucker in the hallway, expecting a continuation of their earlier confrontation. However, what transpired next left a lasting impact on the rookie.
“He comes in, just wraps me up, just grabs me. ‘Rook, I can’t let you be a part of this man, this losing sh*t man this ain’t the real NBA. You too good for that. You need somebody that’s gonna push you. Every day,'” Booker shared, quoting Tucker.
Despite their altercation, Tucker’s message was clear: he saw the potential in Booker and wanted to ensure he didn’t become complacent in a losing environment. This moment of tough love and mentorship from Tucker served as a wake-up call for Booker, reinforcing the dedication and resilience required to succeed in the NBA.
The Suns ended that season with a disappointing 23-59 record, but Booker’s talent and determination shone through. Over the years, Booker has grown into a four-time All-Star, leading the Suns to a resurgence in the league and solidifying his status as one of the NBA’s premier players.
Reflecting on that pivotal moment with Tucker, Booker expressed no regrets about his early struggles, acknowledging that the experience and mentorship he received were instrumental in his development. As the Suns continue to build on their success, Booker’s journey from a promising rookie to a franchise cornerstone remains a testament to the power of perseverance and the impact of veteran leadership.
