On March 8th, the Phoenix Suns faced off against the Charlotte Hornets, securing a 111-99 victory. The Suns' backcourt trio of Devin Booker, Collin Gillespie, and Jalen Green combined for an impressive 78 points, showcasing their offensive prowess. While most fans enjoyed another win in what’s been a promising season, for one young man in section 108, row 17, this game was a momentous occasion.
Tate Haddock, a 22-year-old die-hard Suns fan, watched the game with his parents, Mike and Pam. Tate’s love for the Suns is a family tradition, with his mother recalling tales from the team's early days. Tate’s passion for the Suns ignited during Devin Booker’s sophomore season, about a decade ago.
In August 2024, Tate’s life took a dramatic turn when he was diagnosed with leukemia. Doctors gave him a grim prognosis without treatment, but Tate faced the challenge head-on.
"It was very rattling, more than anything," he shared. Yet, the hardest part, according to Tate, was witnessing his loved ones struggle alongside him.
“It was a lot harder on the people that cared about me than it was myself.”
The Haddock family made weekly four-and-a-half-hour trips to St. Louis for Tate’s chemotherapy.
Through it all, they remained resilient, supported by their community. “I had a great support system,” Tate said, crediting his family, partner, and friends for their unwavering support.
The community rallied around them, organizing a golf benefit that showcased the kindness of strangers.
Despite the challenges, the Haddocks kept their Suns fandom alive. Pam fondly remembers Charles Barkley’s "bad attitude," while Tate admires Dillon Brooks and Jordan Goodwin. Tate even has a special connection with Dionte Christmas, who once reposted his Instagram story.
Just days before Tate’s birthday, the family embarked on a road trip from Missouri to Phoenix to watch the Suns play live. Pam was determined to make the night unforgettable, reaching out to the Suns’ Mercury Foundation, who promised a memorable experience.
Before the game, Tate, newly in remission, had the chance to walk through the players’ tunnel and stand courtside during the pregame shootaround. He met players like Royce O’Neale, Amir Coffey, Haywood Highsmith, and Oso Ighodaro, who signed his hat and showered him with Suns merchandise. “It was amazing,” Pam said, grateful for the recognition and VIP treatment that made the night extraordinary.
Though Tate’s battle isn’t over, as he continues chemotherapy until September 2027, his spirits are high. “This is the best I’ve felt about being a Suns fan since 2021,” he remarked. Pam added, “We love the culture and scrappiness.”
Tate’s favorite young player, Rasheer Fleming, embodies the grit and determination that resonates with him. Like Fleming, Tate has shown a fighting spirit that refuses to back down.
His advice? “When you are facing adversity, try to see the good in things.
When it’s hard to find the good, you’ve got some options. You can create it for yourself or look harder.
Eventually, you’ll find it, no matter how hard it can be.”
Tate’s journey is a testament to resilience and the power of community. It reminds us of the strength we find in unity, whether as a small town in Missouri or as fans of a basketball team. It’s about taking care of each other, cherishing our loved ones, and passionately supporting the teams we hold dear.