22-year-old Deandre Ayton has played a big role in making
Phoenix Suns a title contender in NBA 2021 just three years after being the top
pick in the NBA Draft. Ayton scored 22 points and grabbed 19 rebounds in the
Suns’ game-one NBA Finals win against Milwaukee Bucks but struggled with foul
trouble for the first time in the playoffs in a game three loss as Phoenix
carries a 2-1 lead into Wednesday’s fourth game of the best-of-seven series.

The Suns have reached the finals for the first time since 1993
and are just two wins away from winning their first title since joining the
league in 1968.

Ayton shakes off pre-game goosebumps with a routine that
locks him in upon the on-court challenges. His focus is on having an impact in
a game, whether it means points and rebounds or defensive domination.

“I really just take three deep breaths, close my eyes
and after that, the whole arena is really empty. I just see my teammates and my
coaches. There is a task at hand after that,” AFP quoted Ayton as saying.

When 16-year veteran guard Chris Paul joined the club, he
showed Ayton key details that have enabled him to elevate his game. Ayton
learned how to deliver pick-and-roll plays just how Paul wants them and use
positioning to enhance his physical skills.

“First thing he taught me that I am going to need in my
career for a while is learning angles, how to get people open, and learn how to
get open and set the screen,” Ayton said.

Paul has seen the work ethic and growth in Ayton since his
arrival in November.

“Just seeing the maturity in him not only as a basketball
player but as a person. He has the biggest heart, one of the best guys you will
ever meet. The success and the recognition that he is getting is well deserved
and I could not be happier,” Paul said about Ayton.

Ayton has become defensive dynamite, altering shots and
grabbing rebounds to deny second chances.

“Defensively it is just the force and energy that he
plays with every possession. He is just locked into the role,” Phoenix Suns
coach Monty Williams said.

“Sometimes when you tell a player he has a role they
think you are limiting their ability. He understands his role and how he can
affect winning on both sides of the ball,” Williams added.