What's Happening?
Nigel Hayes-Davis, a former college basketball standout from Wisconsin, is making a return to the NBA with the Phoenix Suns after a seven-year hiatus. Hayes-Davis last played in the NBA during the 2017-18 season with the Los Angeles Lakers, Sacramento Kings, and Toronto Raptors. Since then, he has built a successful career in Europe, playing for teams such as Galatasaray, Zalgiris, Barcelona, and Fenerbahce. In the 2024-25 EuroLeague season with Fenerbahce, he averaged 16.8 points, 5.2 rebounds, 1.5 assists, and 1.1 steals per game, showcasing his ability to perform at a high level. Hayes-Davis expressed confidence in his ability to transition back to the NBA, emphasizing that his style of play is effective in both the EuroLeague and the NBA.
Why It's Important?
Hayes-Davis' return to the NBA is significant for both the player and the Phoenix Suns. For Hayes-Davis, it represents an opportunity to prove his skills on one of the biggest stages in basketball after honing his craft overseas. For the Suns, his addition could provide a valuable boost to their roster, especially after making several changes in the offseason. If Hayes-Davis can replicate his European success in the NBA, he could become a key contributor to the team's performance, potentially impacting their standings in the league.
What's Next?
As the NBA season progresses, all eyes will be on Hayes-Davis to see how he adapts to the league after his time in Europe. The Suns will be monitoring his performance closely, hoping that his experience and skills will translate into success on the court. His performance could influence the team's strategy and lineup decisions as they aim to improve their competitiveness in the league.
