CJ Huntley, the standout player from Appalachian State, has officially signed a two-way contract with the Phoenix Suns, as announced by the team on July 3. Last season, Huntley made a notable impact by averaging 15.7 points and 8.1 rebounds, showcasing his scoring ability with an impressive shooting percentage of 49.7% from the field. His proficiency in three-point shooting, with 42 successful attempts out of 117, contributed to his recognition as a second-team All-Sun Belt player.
Huntley’s journey at Appalachian State spanned five years, during which he participated in 153 games, tying the record for the most in school history. This move marks a significant addition to the Suns’ roster as they continue to adjust following the 2025 NBA Draft, which took place on June 25-26 in Brooklyn.
In a series of roster changes, the Suns also acquired center Mark Williams from the Charlotte Hornets in exchange for Vasa Micic, the 29th overall pick in the 2025 draft, and a future first-round pick. Additionally, the team re-signed guard Collin Gillespie to a one-year deal, who has previously played as a two-way player for Phoenix last season.
The recent trade of Kevin Durant to the Houston Rockets will be finalized on July 6, as part of broader roster strategies ahead of the upcoming season. This deal brought Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, a top-10 draft pick, and several second-round picks into the Suns’ fold.
The Suns’ proactive moves illustrate their commitment to building a competitive team, while fans are left optimistic with the influx of new talent and the potential for growth heading into the new season. Stay tuned for further updates on the team’s progress.