Former Suns favorite Mikal Bridges wins NBA Finals with Knicks

The 2021 Suns, led by Devin Booker, Chris Paul and Bridges, came within two wins of capturing Phoenix’s first NBA title before falling to the Milwaukee Bucks in six games. While the roster has seen its fair share of changes, Bridges remains one of the most beloved figures from that era. Known for his durability, defense and upbeat personality, Bridges became a fan favorite during his time in Phoenix.

Although Bridges’ time in Phoenix ended before the Suns could make another Finals run, his career continued to ascend elsewhere.

The former Suns forward was traded to the Brooklyn Nets in February 2023 as part of the blockbuster deal that brought Kevin Durant to Phoenix. He flourished in Brooklyn, emerging as a primary scoring option and one of the team’s leaders. In the summer of 2024, the Knicks acquired Bridges in another major trade, reuniting him with several former Villanova teammates and creating a core that would eventually bring New York its first championship in 53 years.

For Suns fans, Bridges’ championship is a reminder of the talent and chemistry that defined Phoenix’s 2021 Finals run. While it ended short of a title, his success offers some satisfaction for a fan base that watched him grow into one of the league’s most respected two-way players.

Bridges’ championship may have come in New York, but his connection to Phoenix remains strong, and fans in the Valley are celebrating it nonetheless.