From Non-Shooter to Phoenix Suns’ Rising Star

Ryan Dunn’s basketball journey defies logic and expectations. Once labeled as a “complete non-shooter” and a long-term project, the Phoenix Suns rookie is now making headlines in the NBA. His incredible transformation highlights the power of perseverance, adaptability, and sheer will.

Ryan Dunn’s Unlikely Beginnings
At 6-foot-8 with a 7-foot-1½ wingspan, Dunn’s defensive prowess now stands out, but his high school journey told a different story. He started as a scrawny guard who didn’t even make his team as a freshman. Dunn’s early game revolved around standing in the corner and shooting 3-pointers, but he lacked the defensive skills and athleticism he’s known for today.

Dunn’s late growth spurt was the turning point. By his senior year, he had grown to 6-foot-4 and later hit 6-foot-8 during a postgraduate year at Perkiomen School. There, he dunked for the first time, and college offers began pouring in. His defensive potential became evident, catching the attention of Virginia coach Tony Bennett.

The College Years: Defense Over Offense
At Virginia, Dunn emerged as a defensive dynamo, earning a reputation as one of the best defensive prospects in the 2024 NBA Draft. As a freshman, he averaged just 2.6 points per game but delivered stellar defensive numbers, including a 10.6% block rate and 2.1% steal rate. By his sophomore year, analysts like ESPN and The Ringer dubbed him the best defender in the draft class.

However, Dunn’s offensive game lagged behind. In his final college season, he made only seven 3-pointers and struggled with consistency, prompting scouts to view him as a long-term investment.

NBA Draft: A Risk Worth Taking
Despite his offensive limitations, the Phoenix Suns saw potential in Dunn, selecting him 28th overall in the 2024 NBA Draft. Critics doubted the pick, with The Athletic labeling him “one of the worst” offensive prospects among recent first-rounders.

But Dunn quickly proved skeptics wrong.

The Breakthrough: Shooting and Defense in the NBA
In just his fourth preseason game, Dunn shot 6-for-11 from beyond the arc, a staggering improvement for someone with a shaky college shooting record. Through 21 regular-season games, he’s maintained a respectable 31.6% from deep, debunking the “non-shooter” label.

Dunn’s impact goes beyond scoring. He’s started nine games for the Suns, averaging 17.5 minutes while frequently guarding elite opponents like Jalen Brunson, Lauri Markkanen, and even blocking LeBron James.

Kevin Durant praised Dunn’s maturity, calling his plays “veteran-like” just three games into his NBA career.

The Transformation: A Relentless Work Ethic
Dunn’s offensive improvement is largely credited to Phil Beckner, the renowned shooting coach behind Damian Lillard’s success. Beckner simplified Dunn’s mechanics, focusing on footwork, balance, and consistent shooting motion. Hours of repetitive drills and foundational shooting routines helped Dunn develop confidence in his shot.

“I wanted to be better than I was, and it took a lot of reps and belief,” Dunn said of his progress.

Conclusion: A Star in the Making
Ryan Dunn’s rise from a non-shooter to a crucial contributor for the Phoenix Suns is nothing short of remarkable. His defensive skills remain his calling card, but his newfound shooting confidence has elevated his game to the next level.

As Dunn continues to develop, he’s a shining example of how hard work and resilience can rewrite even the most unlikely narratives in professional sports. The once-overlooked prospect is now a key piece in Phoenix’s quest for NBA glory.