Dillon Brooks Delivers Statement Performance as Suns Edge Warriors
PHOENIX - If Dillon Brooks had a checklist for redemption, Thursday night’s win over the Warriors might’ve earned a big, bold checkmark. The Suns squeaked out a 99-98 win in a game that felt like more than just another December matchup - it was personal, and Brooks made sure everyone knew it.
He poured in 24 points, but it wasn’t just the scoring that stood out. It was the way he played - relentless on defense, fearless with the ball, and unbothered by the moment.
The physicality, the edge, the energy - it was all classic Brooks. And in a game that featured Stephen Curry on the other side, Brooks didn’t just hold his own - he outshined the two-time MVP.
Curry finished with 15 points, and while he’s had more explosive nights, this one belonged to Brooks. He was a constant disruptor, pestering Curry on defense and attacking with purpose on offense. It was the kind of performance that reminds you why teams love having a guy like Brooks in their corner - someone who thrives in the chaos and isn’t afraid to stir the pot.
After the game, Brooks didn’t shy away from what this one meant.
I asked Dillon Brooks why he enjoys playing against guys like Steph Curry so much.
— Hayden Cilley (@HaydenCilley) December 19, 2025
“Those teams had my number for a while in the big stages. I’m trying to get to the big stage and perform there. These are just games to get to this point, or get to that point in the future.” pic.twitter.com/oQeaWn8cnO
“Those teams had my number for a while in the big stages,” he said. “I’m trying to get to the big stage and perform there. These are just games to get to this point, or get to that point in the future.”
That’s the mindset of a player who’s chasing more than just regular-season wins. Brooks knows the narrative - the playoff struggles, the viral moments where Curry turned him into a highlight - especially during last season’s first-round series when the Warriors eliminated the Rockets. That series wasn’t kind to him, and the internet made sure no one forgot it.
But this season, things are different. Brooks is in Phoenix now, playing under first-year head coach Jordan Ott, and putting together what might be the best season of his career. He’s not just playing with a chip on his shoulder - he’s trying to reshape how people see him altogether.
And performances like Thursday’s help that cause. He didn’t just show up - he set the tone. It was a reminder that Brooks, for all the noise that sometimes follows him, is still a guy who can impact winning in a big way.
Of course, one game doesn’t rewrite the book. The Suns have preached that all season - stay steady, don’t get too high or too low. But they’ll take this one, especially with another shot at the Warriors coming up Saturday in the Bay.
For Brooks, that’s another opportunity. Another chance to prove he belongs in the spotlight. And if he keeps playing like this, he won’t just be chasing the big stage - he’ll be commanding it.