Suns' Devin Booker praises rookie Rasheer Fleming's 'natural instincts'

Despite limited playing time, the 21-year-old forward is making the most of his opportunities with the Suns.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 12:07am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the dynamic movements and energy of a basketball game, with sharp, overlapping planes of bright orange, purple, and teal colors representing the Phoenix Suns and their opponent.Rookie Rasheer Fleming's natural talent and versatility have earned him praise from Suns star Devin Booker, as the young forward continues to make the most of his limited opportunities.Santa Cruz Today

Phoenix Suns rookie Rasheer Fleming has been making the most of his limited playing time this season, impressing his teammates and coaches with his versatility and natural talent. Despite averaging just 4.2 points and 2.3 rebounds in 11.7 minutes per game, the 31st overall pick has shown flashes of his potential, including a career-high 16-point performance. All-Star guard Devin Booker has taken notice, praising Fleming's 'natural instincts' and ability to contribute when called upon.

Why it matters

The Suns have high hopes for Fleming, who was a highly touted prospect out of St. Joseph's due to his versatility and length. His development will be crucial for the team's long-term success, as they look to build around their young core of Booker, Chris Paul, and Deandre Ayton.

The details

Fleming is averaging 4.2 points and 2.3 rebounds while shooting 34.5% from 3-point range across 11.7 minutes in 51 appearances with the Suns. He recorded a career-high 16 points and two rebounds on March 8 in a win over the Charlotte Hornets. The 21-year-old forward was recently thrust into a larger role and is averaging 6.6 points and 3.6 rebounds in 18.5 minutes per game since the All-Star break, scoring 10 or more points in consecutive games for the first time last week.

  • Fleming was the 31st overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft.
  • He was assigned to the G League's Valley Suns before the All-Star break, where he averaged 17.1 points, 7 rebounds and 1.4 assists in 9 games.
  • Since the All-Star break, Fleming has seen an increased role with the Suns, averaging 6.6 points and 3.6 rebounds in 18.5 minutes per game.

The players

Rasheer Fleming

A 21-year-old rookie forward for the Phoenix Suns, selected 31st overall in the 2026 NBA Draft out of St. Joseph's University. He is known for his versatility, length, and natural talent.

Devin Booker

An All-Star guard for the Phoenix Suns, who has praised Fleming's 'natural instincts' and ability to contribute when given the opportunity.

Jordan Ott

The head coach of the Phoenix Suns, who has been managing Fleming's minutes and development this season.

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What they’re saying

“I'm just keeping a stay-ready mindset, regardless if I'm playing a lot or a little bit. Just stay ready, and when I get in, just go make an impact.”

— Rasheer Fleming, Suns Rookie

“He is in a tough role, you know? It's his first year, and he is thrown into the fire. He is just learning on the fly. I try to talk to him in practice and in the huddles, and give him any tips I can. But he has the intangibles. He has some natural instincts of somebody that is going to be in this league a really long time.”

— Devin Booker, Suns All-Star

What’s next

The Suns will continue to monitor Fleming's development and look for opportunities to increase his playing time as the season progresses. His performance in the G League and his ability to contribute in limited minutes with the Suns will be key factors in determining his role going forward.

The takeaway

Rasheer Fleming's impressive play in limited minutes has earned him the praise of his veteran teammates, including Devin Booker. The Suns' willingness to trade up to select Fleming in the draft shows their belief in his potential, and his continued growth and adaptation to the NBA game will be crucial for the team's long-term success.