Phoenix Suns Seek Playoff Berth After Surprise Season

Suns head coach and star player Dillon Brooks discuss team's path to the postseason.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

The Phoenix Suns have exceeded preseason expectations this year, emerging as a surprise contender for a playoff spot in the Western Conference. In a recent win over the Eastern Conference-leading Detroit Pistons, Suns star Dillon Brooks scored a career-high 40 points, showcasing the team's ability to compete with the league's elite. The Suns' head coach and Brooks himself reflect on the team's unique playing style and their determination to secure a postseason berth.

Why it matters

The Suns' unexpected success this season has captured the attention of basketball fans across the league. As a team that was largely overlooked in preseason projections, their potential playoff push represents an inspiring underdog story and highlights the unpredictable nature of the NBA landscape.

The details

In the Suns' recent upset victory over the Pistons, Dillon Brooks erupted for 40 points, setting a new career-high. The Suns' head coach praised the team's distinct playing style, which has allowed them to compete with some of the league's top teams. Despite facing long odds to make the playoffs at the start of the season, the Suns remain focused on securing a postseason berth through their hard-nosed, team-first approach.

  • On January 29, 2026, Dillon Brooks scored a career-high 40 points in the Suns' win over the Pistons.

The players

Dillon Brooks

A star player for the Phoenix Suns who recently scored a career-high 40 points in a win over the Detroit Pistons.

Phoenix Suns

An NBA team that has exceeded preseason expectations and is now in contention for a playoff spot in the Western Conference.

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What they’re saying

“We play our own style of basketball,”

— Dillon Brooks, Suns player (azcentral)

What’s next

The Suns will continue their push for a playoff spot as the season progresses, with key games against other Western Conference contenders.

The takeaway

The Suns' surprising success this season serves as a reminder that preseason projections can often be upended, and that hard work, team chemistry, and a unique playing style can propel an underdog team to new heights in the NBA.