The return to the Valley tour continued for former Arizona State running back Cam Skattebo on Saturday, as he kicked off the Phoenix Suns’ game against the Denver Nuggets by shooting the first free throw.
He was in attendance at the Territorial Cup between ASU and Arizona as the Sun Devils’ honorary captain on Friday and stuck around for some NBA action.
The rookie RB for the New York Giants, who rolled out with his right knee propped up on a scooter for the rivalry game’s coin toss the night prior, took the free throw while on both feet.
Though it was for a limited time, the ability to put weight on the recently repaired right ankle can only be a positive in his recovery.
And he definitely gave the shot enough lift.
Cam Skattebo honored with attempting the game’s first free throw.
He was also in Tempe for the Territorial Cup between ASU and Arizona last night. pic.twitter.com/y0MQ1g8Wuf
— Hayden Cilley (@HaydenCilley) November 30, 2025
Though the Suns fell in their second straight game 130-112, behind cold 3-point shooting, Skattebo was all smiles.
Last week and this week, the back is supporting Phoenix Children’s via the NFL’s My Cause My Cleats campaign.
When did Suns’ free throw tradition start so Skattebo could shoot?
The ceremonial first free throw became a tradition in the season home opener against the Sacramento Kings, as former Suns center Amar’e Stoudemire had the honor of getting it started.
Phoenix Mercury coach Nate Tibbetts was also among those who have taken the shot from the charity stripe. And, for what it’s worth, he is one of the few to make it.