From Unstoppable in Lexington to a Perfect Fit in Phoenix — Koby Brea’s Path to the NBA Couldn’t Have Been Scripted Better

The pick originally belonged to the Golden State Warriors, but it was traded to the Suns prior to the draft. Now, Phoenix adds a lights-out shooter to pair alongside Devin Booker in what could be one of the league’s most dangerous backcourts.

This selection also marks a milestone for Kentucky head coach Mark Pope, as Brea becomes his first player to be drafted since taking over in Lexington.

Brea built a reputation as one of the best 3-point shooters in college basketball over the last two seasons. Before transferring to Kentucky, he led the nation in 3-point percentage while at Dayton. Once in Lexington, he continued to be a lethal weapon from deep, giving the Wildcats a new offensive dimension alongside fellow transfer Ansley Almonor.

Throughout the 2024–25 season, Brea showed up when it mattered most. He had seven games with 20 or more points, including a 23-point performance against Illinois in the Second Round of the NCAA Tournament. He also hit 3+ three-pointers in 16 games — most memorably knocking down seven threes in a win over eventual national champion Florida on January 4.

Brea’s reliability wasn’t limited to scoring. He became a durable and consistent presence, playing 30+ minutes in 16 games, including 13 of his last 14.

What the Suns are getting is more than just a shooter — they’re adding a high-IQ scorer, a veteran presence, and a player who can stretch defenses from anywhere beyond the arc. His skill set perfectly complements Phoenix’s current roster, and his arrival adds crucial depth and spacing.

Koby Brea’s journey — from Dayton to Kentucky to the NBA — is a testament to development, dedication, and deadly precision from deep. The Suns just got a major piece for their playoff push.