The Phoenix Suns have generated offseason attention not only through roster moves but also because of an unusual jersey number situation involving franchise star Devin Booker and teammate Mark Williams. After announcing his decision to switch back to No. 15, Booker found himself needing the number that Williams had been wearing.
Booker’s decision to wear No. 15 carries personal significance. The Suns’ leading scorer chose the number to honor his father, Melvin Booker, who wore it during his college basketball career at Missouri. It also gives Booker the opportunity to consistently wear the same number he has represented while competing for Team USA.
Because Williams already owned No. 15 after arriving in Phoenix, the change required a conversation between teammates. The two quickly addressed the situation, with Booker reportedly assuring Williams that he would make things right if the young center remained with the organization.
Now that Williams has signed a new three-year contract to stay in Phoenix, he says those discussions are continuing in a positive manner. While a final agreement has yet to be announced, the center expressed confidence that both sides will soon settle the matter.
1. Respectful Negotiations
Williams recently described the conversations with Booker as ongoing negotiations, adding that he has complete confidence in the Suns’ star to honor his promise. The center indicated there has been no tension surrounding the situation and expects a resolution in the near future.
The jersey exchange reflects Booker’s standing within the organization. As the longest-tenured player on the roster and one of the most accomplished figures in franchise history, Booker carries significant influence inside the Suns’ locker room.
At the same time, Booker has recognized the importance of treating teammates with respect. Rather than simply claiming the number, he contacted Williams directly before the change became official, demonstrating the leadership expected from the face of the franchise.
Williams’ relaxed approach to the matter suggests the conversations have remained friendly. By publicly expressing trust in Booker, the 24-year-old center emphasized the positive relationship that continues to develop between the two teammates.
2. Finding a New Number
Although giving up No. 15 was expected, selecting a replacement jersey proved more complicated for Williams than many fans may have realized. Several of the numbers he previously wore throughout his basketball career were unavailable in Phoenix.
One possibility, No. 5, was immediately ruled out because the Suns retired the jersey in honor of franchise legend Dick Van Arsdale. As a result, that number has remained permanently unavailable within the organization.
Williams also could not return to No. 7 or No. 12, numbers he wore at different stages during high school. Both jersey numbers are currently assigned to Suns teammates Haywood Highsmith and Collin Gillespie, leaving him with limited options.
Ultimately, Williams settled on No. 25 for the upcoming season. The number is familiar to Phoenix fans, having previously been worn by Mikal Bridges during his successful tenure with the Suns before his departure from the franchise.
3. Stability for the Suns
The jersey discussions come shortly after Williams secured his long-term future in Phoenix by signing a three-year, $38 million contract. The new agreement ensures that one of the team’s key frontcourt players will remain part of its plans moving forward.
Williams originally joined the Suns in the summer of 2025 after being acquired in a trade from the Charlotte Hornets. Since arriving in Phoenix, he has continued developing into an important contributor, providing size, rebounding, and interior defense.
For Booker, reclaiming No. 15 represents more than a cosmetic change. The decision connects him more closely to his family while giving him a jersey number that carries personal meaning throughout both his NBA and international basketball career.
As training camp approaches, the jersey issue appears to be little more than a lighthearted offseason storyline. With Williams comfortable in his new number and Booker expected to wear No. 15, the Suns can turn their full attention toward preparing for the 2026-27 season.