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Jan 24, 2024; Charlottesville, Virginia, USA; Virginia Cavaliers guard Ryan Dunn (13) reacts after a dunk against the North Carolina State Wolfpack in overtime at John Paul Jones Arena. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

Reactions: Suns Fans Love New Draft Pick Ryan Dunn

Originally posted on Phoenix Suns on SI | By Donnie Druin | Last updated Jun 26, 2024 11:32 PM ET

The Phoenix Suns have welcomed Virginia wing Ryan Dunn to the Valley after taking him with the 28th overall selection in the 2024 NBA Draft.

Phoenix kept fans waiting around longer than anticipated after moving down from No. 22. Suns GM James Jones traded back with the Denver Nuggets for a total of three second-round picks on top of pick 28.

The Suns added who many believe to be one of the best defenders in the draft:

Ryan Dunn needs some work on O, but he has the potential to be the type of player every team covets:

The ultimate wing stopper.pic.twitter.com/mLzGDWPYgI
— Suns Are Better (@SunsAreBetter) June 27, 2024

It's safe to say Suns fans are pretty hyped on the selection:

OMG OMG

HOW THE LEAGUE LET THE SUNS GET THIS DEMON

WELCOME TO PHOENIX, RYAN DUNN pic.twitter.com/Q4JFGY7BOy
— LEEZUS (@AndrewLeezus) June 27, 2024

Prior to draft night, outlets such as ESPN highlighted Dunn's rising draft stock that ultimately saw him land as a first-round pick.

"Dunn is said to be gaining steam in this range of the draft after a slew of outstanding workouts this month propelled him firmly into the first round. Several teams have said Dunn exceeded expectations with his shooting while also doing some absolutely mesmerizing things defensively in guarding point guards through centers in group settings," wrote Jonathan Givony.

Ryan Dunn adds instant youth, size, defense and athleticism to the Suns rotation.

The jumper has a *long* ways to go, but he can play right away by providing elite defense on the wing. Something the Suns lack.
— Zona (@AZSportsZone) June 27, 2024

The rest of the Western Conference might be shaking in their boots when Dunn takes the stage.

Luka when he sees Ryan Dunn check in the game during the WCF pic.twitter.com/xq4143Tdf7
— ️ (@HoodiBrisker) June 27, 2024

The overall consensus online seems to be a great appreciation for what Dunn is already - a player who can come in and contribute immediately.

Ryan Dunn has nice athleticism/length,knows his strengths, takes pride in getting stops,makes u earn yours and defends the entire possession .Whether he's getting into you,hedging over screens,giving help, playing the passing lanes or some rim protection.Also, good slasher/cutter
— Ross Kreines (@rosskre) June 27, 2024

Some would even say... a perfect fit.

Ryan Dunn to the Suns is perfect.

Potentially an all-world defender. On offense he can screen, catch lobs, cut. This works surrounded by all Phoenix's shooters. He's going to be good, and if the shot develops he has major upside. pic.twitter.com/Hn9l49RAkL
— Kevin O'Connor (@KevinOConnorNBA) June 27, 2024

For a guy who isn't considered to be an offensive weapon, he can sure throw it down:

Ryan Dunn, Welcome to Phoenix! pic.twitter.com/UTL7lAbutH
— CantGuardBook (@CGBBURNER) June 27, 2024

All in all, the Suns can rest their heads on the pillow knowing help is on the way, at least defensively.

Arguably the top defender in the draft, Ryan Dunn seamlessly fits into the Phoenix Suns' system. With a remarkable 7'1 wingspan and an impressive 38.5-inch vertical leap, this assertive and efficient wing player will make a significant impact in the team's rotation.
— (@easymoneyslugg) June 27, 2024

The second round of action begins tomorrow.

This article first appeared on Phoenix Suns on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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