The Phoenix Suns have been a staple of excitement, innovation, and high-octane basketball since their inception in 1968. Over the decades, the franchise has been home to some of the most electrifying players in NBA history, from high-flying guards to dominant big men. But what if you could assemble the ultimate all-time Suns starting five? A dream team that combines the best talent, leadership, and legacy the organization has ever seen? Here’s a deep dive into constructing the perfect Phoenix Suns lineup, blending skill, chemistry, and sheer dominance.
Point Guard: Steve Nash
No discussion about the Phoenix Suns’ greatest players can begin without Steve Nash. The two-time MVP (2005, 2006) wasn’t just the engine of the “Seven Seconds or Less” Suns—he was the heart and soul of a team that redefined modern basketball. Nash’s unparalleled court vision, pinpoint passing, and lethal shooting made him the ideal floor general. Leading the league in assists five times during his Suns tenure, Nash’s ability to elevate his teammates was unmatched. Whether it was hitting a clutch three or threading a no-look pass to Amar’e Stoudemire for a thunderous dunk, Nash’s creativity and leadership make him the undisputed choice at point guard for this all-time starting five.
Shooting Guard: Devin Booker
Devin Booker represents the present and future of the Suns, but his impact already places him among the franchise’s all-time greats. Booker’s scoring prowess is legendary—whether it’s his 70-point game in 2017 or his clutch performances in the 2021 NBA Finals run, he has proven himself as one of the most lethal shooters in Suns history. A three-time All-Star and the face of the Suns’ resurgence, Booker combines deep-range shooting, mid-range mastery, and an underrated playmaking ability. His competitive fire and ability to take over games in critical moments make him the perfect backcourt partner for Nash, ensuring this dream team has no shortage of offensive firepower.
Small Forward: Charles Barkley
Yes, Charles Barkley is best known as a power forward, but his versatility allows him to slide to the three in this lineup. The 1993 MVP and leader of the Suns’ last Finals team before 2021, Barkley was a force of nature. Standing at just 6’6”, he dominated taller opponents with his strength, rebounding, and scoring ability. Barkley averaged 25.6 points and 12.2 rebounds per game during his MVP season, carrying the Suns to 62 wins. His ability to play inside and out, combined with his tenacity and leadership, would make him a nightmare matchup at small forward in this all-time lineup. Imagine the pick-and-roll possibilities with Nash and the floor spacing with Booker—Barkley’s presence would elevate this team to unstoppable heights.
Power Forward: Amar’e Stoudemire
Amar’e Stoudemire, the high-flying big man, was the perfect complement to Steve Nash during the Suns’ heyday in the mid-2000s. STAT (Standing Tall And Talented) was a walking highlight reel, known for his explosive dunks, relentless pick-and-roll chemistry with Nash, and improved mid-range game. A six-time All-Star with the Suns, Stoudemire averaged 21.4 points and 8.9 rebounds during his tenure. His athleticism and scoring ability would provide this dream team with an unstoppable interior presence. Pairing him with Barkley would create a frontcourt duo that dominates both ends of the floor—Stoudemire’s offensive explosiveness and Barkley’s all-around brilliance would be a matchup nightmare for any opposing defense.
Center: Shaquille O’Neal
While Shaquille O’Neal’s time in Phoenix was brief (2008-2009), his impact and legacy in the NBA make him the ideal anchor for this all-time Suns lineup. Even in his later years with the Suns, Shaq was a dominant force, averaging 17.8 points and 8.4 rebounds in his first full season with the team. Prime Shaq—the most physically dominant player in NBA history—would give this dream team an unstoppable low-post presence. His ability to command double-teams, protect the rim, and finish with authority would open up endless opportunities for Nash, Booker, and the rest of the squad. Shaq’s championship pedigree and larger-than-life personality would also bring a winning mentality to this already stacked roster.
Why This Lineup Works
This all-time Suns starting five blends scoring, playmaking, defense, and championship experience. Steve Nash orchestrates the offense with his genius-level basketball IQ, while Devin Booker provides elite scoring and clutch shot-making. Charles Barkley brings toughness, versatility, and rebounding, while Amar’e Stoudemire adds athleticism and pick-and-roll dominance. Shaquille O’Neal anchors the defense and provides an unstoppable interior presence. Together, they form a team that can play fast (like the Nash-era Suns) or grind it out in the half-court (like the Barkley-led teams). The spacing, unselfishness, and sheer talent of this lineup would be nearly impossible to defend.
