The Phoenix Suns’ resurgence can be attributed to many things, but Mat Ishbia’s growth in influence over the team’s progress may have come from an unlikely source.

How Stephen A. Smith helped Mat Ishbia and the suns

ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith has been influential in Ishbia’s approach, according to a recent interview with The Athletic.

Ishbia’s decision to lean in and be himself has allowed the Suns’ front office to build a winning team less than one year after missing the postseason with a 36-46 record. What does this mean about Ishbia as an executive, as he’s in the spotlight at All-Star weekend?

With All-Star weekend in mind, Devin Booker’s 3-point contest history takes center stage as he prepares to compete in the event for the fifth time in his career. PHNX Suns discusses their All-Star expectations from Booker, including the importance of resting during the main event Sunday.

In line with the theme of No. 3, the show closes with a discussion of Chris Paul’s illustrious career in the wake of his retirement and a talk about Dillon Brooks’ misleading defensive numbers at this juncture of the season.

Follow the show: @PHNX_Suns, @Espo, @GilMcGregor_, @StephenPG3 and @ErikRuby!

0:00 Intro

4:15 Mat Ishbia convo

16:45 Mat Ishbia All-Star

25:00 Devin Booker 3-point contest history