UPDATE: Collin Gillespie’s incredible rise in the NBA is making headlines as he positions himself as a leading contender for the Sixth Man of the Year award. Just last season, Gillespie was navigating the G League, but now his performance for the Phoenix Suns has turned heads, with fans and analysts alike buzzing about his potential.
With the 2025-26 season underway, Gillespie has tallied impressive stats: 14.0 points per game, 5.1 assists, 4.1 rebounds, and 1.4 steals on a shooting split of 44/43/87. His true shooting percentage stands at an outstanding 60.1%, showcasing his efficiency and impact on the court.
As of January 25, 2026, Gillespie has participated in 33 games, with 14 starts. While he remains eligible for the Sixth Man award, the imminent return of teammate Jalen Green could shift him back to a bench role, raising the stakes for the remainder of the season.
What makes Gillespie’s case compelling is not just his numbers but also the emotional narrative surrounding his journey. The Suns have defied expectations this season, largely due to Gillespie’s breakout performance. His defensive prowess is evident as he competes fiercely against larger opponents, disrupting plays and contributing significantly to team success.
“Collin Gillespie makes winning plays. He is a winner. Plain and simple,”
a source close to the team mentioned, highlighting the player’s influence on the court.
While Gillespie dominates the conversation for the Sixth Man award, he faces stiff competition from notable players such as Keldon Johnson and Ajay Mitchell, both of whom have also been vital to their teams. Emerging talents like Jaime Jaquez Jr. and Reed Sheppard are in the mix as well, ensuring a competitive landscape for the award this season.
The depth of talent in the league this year showcases a healthy competition for the Sixth Man title. However, Gillespie’s case is particularly strong, and should he not clinch the award, his performance positions him as a contender for Most Improved Player of the Year as well.
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Gillespie and the Suns, with fans eager to see how his role evolves, especially with potential changes in the starting lineup. Will he maintain his eligibility and continue to shine, or will the team’s dynamics shift his position? The answer could determine not only his future accolades but also the Suns’ playoff aspirations.
One thing is clear: the Phoenix Suns are a significantly better team with Collin Gillespie on the floor. The question remains—where would they be without his contributions? Fans and analysts alike are keen to find out.
