Phoenix Suns Will Open Training Camp This September
The Phoenix Suns begin training camp on September 29, 2026, as the team adjusts to a significant injury to Mark Williams.
Updated on Sept. 27, 2026 in Basketball
Live Poll
Should fans continue to support a local team when its championship window appears closed?
The Phoenix Suns will open their 2026-27 training camp on September 29, 2026, ahead of the new NBA season. The team is currently managing a significant setback with newcomer Mark Williams, who recently underwent surgery.
Why it matters
The Suns are entering the season aiming to improve upon their 45-win performance from the previous year. The team's depth and athleticism are under scrutiny following personnel shifts and an injury that could sideline a key rotation player for months.
Mark Williams averaged 11.7 points and 8 rebounds last season, while Collin Gillespie established a franchise record by sinking 232 made 3-pointers. The team must finalize its 15-player standard roster by October 19.
The players
Mark Williams
He is an NBA center who signed a three-year, $38-million contract with the Phoenix Suns.
Devin Booker
He is a franchise cornerstone for the Phoenix Suns who signed a two-year extension worth $145 million.
Miles Bridges
He is a professional basketball player acquired by the Suns in a trade with the Charlotte Hornets.
Collin Gillespie
He is a guard who set a new Phoenix Suns franchise record with 232 made 3-pointers in the previous season.
Luke Kennard
He is a sharpshooting guard who joined the Phoenix Suns organization during free agency.
The details
Mark Williams will miss three to six months following a September 10 procedure to repair a torn labrum sustained during offseason workouts. The team roster remains in flux as management integrates acquisitions like Miles Bridges, who joined via trade from the Charlotte Hornets.
Timeline
September 10, 2026: Mark Williams underwent shoulder surgery.
September 29, 2026: The Phoenix Suns begin training camp.
October 19, 2026: The team must finalize their 15-player standard roster.
October 30, 2026: Devin Booker turns 30 years old.
2029-30 season: The contract of Devin Booker expires.
Season Trajectory
The team enters the year attempting to solidify their standing within the highly competitive Western Conference playoff bracket. The squad's reliance on depth will be tested as they manage rotation changes to avoid falling into the lower half of the play-in tournament standings.
The absence of Mark Williams creates immediate vacancies in the frontcourt rotation that will impact team rebounding metrics. Fans and analysts should monitor the waiver wire and training camp performance of backup centers to identify potential production gaps in the early schedule.
The takeaway
The Suns face a challenging start to the season while navigating the recovery of a key frontcourt acquisition. Flexibility in the final roster construction will be essential to maintaining competitive depth throughout the long regular season schedule.
Further reading
For more updates on the roster and local team developments, visit Phoenix Basketball.
Source note: This article includes information reported by AZ Central.
Live Poll
Should fans continue to support a local team when its championship window appears closed?
