Devin Booker Reflects on Facing Dwyane Wade as a Rookie

The Suns star recalls playing against his childhood idol as a young NBA player.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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Devin Booker, now a veteran of over a decade in the NBA, still has fond memories of facing off against Miami Heat legend Dwyane Wade during his rookie season. Booker admired Wade growing up and relished the opportunity to compete against him on the court, describing it as one of his favorite moments from his first year in the league.

Why it matters

Booker's reverence for Wade, a fellow elite shooting guard, highlights the influence veteran players can have on the next generation. As Booker has become a superstar in his own right, he may now serve as a role model for up-and-coming guards, just as Wade did for him early in his career.

The details

Booker recalled a specific game in Miami against the Heat, saying "In Miami, just flash man. Admired him growing up and going head to head with him and thought in my head, 'I can't believe I'm on the court with him right now.'" Beyond Wade, Booker has also cited Lakers icon Kobe Bryant as a key influence on his game and development.

  • Booker is now in his 11th NBA season, having been drafted in 2015.

The players

Devin Booker

A 10-year NBA veteran and star shooting guard for the Phoenix Suns, known for his scoring prowess and well-rounded offensive game.

Dwyane Wade

A future Hall of Famer and 3-time NBA champion, who spent the majority of his career with the Miami Heat as one of the league's premier shooting guards.

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What they’re saying

“In Miami, just flash man. Admired him growing up and going head to head with him and thought in my head, 'I can't believe I'm on the court with him right now.'”

— Devin Booker, Phoenix Suns Guard (Sporting News)

The takeaway

Booker's reverence for veteran stars like Dwyane Wade and Kobe Bryant shows how influential experienced players can be in shaping the next generation of NBA talent. As Booker has developed into a superstar himself, he may now serve as a similar role model for up-and-coming shooting guards seeking to follow in his footsteps.