Suns’ Dillon Brooks reveals ‘evil’ truth behind villain role

Phoenix Suns forward Dillon Brooks is a classic example of a player you hate to play against but would love to be on your team. Over the years, Brooks has built a reputation as a tough competitor, although he can be too agitating at times.

He, however, proved last season that he is more than just a pesky defender. He averaged career-highs of 20.2 points and 43.5% shooting, providing extra scoring in his first stint with the Suns. He also continued to embrace his villain role, which has served him well.

The 30-year-old Brooks entered the NBA as a second-round pick in 2017. Though not highly touted, he found a way to get consistent minutes by being a dogged irritant. But he said there is more to it.

“The villain first came out with me just, like, cussing guys out, talking s***, doing controversial hits, elbows, pushes, fights, whatever. But I feel like I evolved it more,” said Brooks on the “Road Trippin’ Show.”

“I think the villain role kind of changed over time when I started taking on, I guess, a lot more leadership role with what the villain really means. It’s not just like an evil, creepy character that’s gonna try to do whatever.”