Lots of changes happened to the Phoenix Suns this offseason and this will include changes in the role for their incoming sophomores, particularly Oso Ighodaro. The Marquette Golden Eagles alum is part of the team’s Summer League squad and there, they are testing a new approach about their front court.
Oso Ighodaro vs Giannis Antetokounmpo
Apr 1, 2025; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) looks for a shot against Phoenix Suns forward Oso Ighodaro (4) in the second quarter at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-Imagn Images
The Suns drafted 7-footer Khaman Maluach 10th overall in the recent NBA draft and automatically, he will use as their new no. 5. Maluach is a shot block machine who thrives as residing in the paint. He once recorded seven blocks in a game for the Ugandan club City Oilers in the Basketball Africa League.
Ighodaro, who was traded to the Suns during draft day by the Blazers, played some power forward last season and he is returning to that role in the SL. He is not complaining and even thought that he is getting a good back up in Maluach.
“It was good. I got to have his back on the defensive end at any time. Having me on the weakside is an advantage having a big guy down there to protect the rim.”
Suns big Oso Ighodaro on playing the four with 7-footer Khaman Maluach at the five. #Suns #NBA2KSummerLeague pic.twitter.com/0GzZZS01iQ
— Duane Rankin (@DuaneRankin) July 12, 2025
Khaman Maluach
Jun 25, 2025; Brooklyn, NY, USA; Khaman Maluach stands with NBA commissioner Adam Silver after being selected as the tenth pick by the Houston Rockets in the first round of the 2025 NBA Draft at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images
Aside from Maluach, the Suns also acquired center Mark Williams from the Charlotte Hornets, creating a log jam in the center position.
Oso Ighodaro recalls Marquette time for new role
He and Dunn are two sophomores sent to the Summer League. Although they are only in their second year, they said they are taking the initiative to become the leader of the squad.
Ighodaro is no stranger to becoming a leader as he believes he had the training to do that while with Marquette.
“I was a leader at Marquette, and I feel like that’s when I’m at my best,” Ighodaro said.
“Just having a little bit more confidence now that I went through my rookie year. I still don’t know everything, but (I’m) just trying to step into that role for sure.”
Oso Ighodaro, Marquette Golden Eagles
Mar 22, 2024; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Marquette Golden Eagles guard Tyler Kolek (11) and forward Oso Ighodaro (13) react in the first half against the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers in the first round of the 2024 NCAA Tournament at Gainbridge FieldHouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports
Suns got younger this offseason with Devin Booker being the only star left after Kevin Durant was traded to the Houston Rockets.
Other veterans are Dillon Brooks who was part of the KD deal, Royce O’Neal, and maybe Jalen Green who is entering his fifth year.
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