Devin Booker Michigan homecoming sparks hope preseason opener

Devin Booker, an NBA player for the Phoenix Suns, visited Ford Field and met with NFL legends before his preseason game. He is motivated to win an NBA title.

In a remarkable display of support for his hometown teams, Devin Booker, the star guard for the Phoenix Suns, took a detour on his way to the Suns' preseason opener to attend a Detroit Lions game. Dressed head to toe in Detroit Tigers gear, Booker made a stop at Ford Field, where he had the opportunity to rub shoulders with NFL Hall of Famer Calvin Johnson and NBA legend Isiah Thomas.

Booker, a native of Grand Rapids, Michigan, expressed his admiration for Calvin Johnson, calling him his "favorite player of all time." The encounter left Booker feeling inspired and motivated as he enters his ninth NBA season with aspirations of winning his first championship.

Reflecting on his own journey and the collective talent of the Suns, Booker emphasized the team's determination to secure a championship ring. He acknowledged the influence of their experienced coach and expressed confidence in their shared goal.

Leaving Ford Field during the first quarter to prepare for the Pistons game, Booker shared his excitement and the impact of his Michigan experience. Isiah Thomas, who accompanied him on a private exit, echoed his sentiments, predicting a standout season for Booker and recognizing his MVP-worthy performances in recent years.

Booker's statistics from the previous season highlight his exceptional skills, with career-best averages of 27.8 points, 5.5 assists, and 4.5 rebounds per game. With the addition of Bradley Beal and coach Frank Vogel, the Suns are determined to secure their first NBA title.

Throughout his career, Booker has proudly represented his home state of Michigan, often wearing jerseys and fan gear from various Michigan sports teams during public appearances. Attending a Lions home game was a childhood dream come true for him, as Detroit sports hold a special place in his heart. Booker has been a devoted fan of the Detroit Red Wings, Pistons, Tigers, and, of course, the Lions. He reminisced about the importance of Sundays, which were always dedicated to family time and watching Lions games.

Booker drew parallels between his own professional journey and the Lions' quest to overcome their losing reputation. Having experienced challenging seasons early in his career, Booker now finds himself in the NBA Finals in 2022. He expressed his hope that the Lions, under the guidance of coach Dan Campbell, can also undergo a transformative change and defy expectations.

Booker's detour to attend the Lions game serves as a testament to his unwavering support for his hometown teams and his desire to see them succeed. As he embarks on the upcoming NBA season, Booker carries with him the inspiration and motivation gained from his Michigan experience, fueling his drive to bring a championship to the Phoenix Suns.