It’s safe to say that the world is back to normal. We witnessed Kevin Durant trash-talk Luka Doncic and produce a comeback win on the same day. However, apart from the superstar’s game-winning performance, there was another Phoenix Suns‘ budding star, Ryan Dunn, who had an impressive outing. The 21-year-old rookie, who was spellbound by Luka Magic’s brilliance, received a tremendous shout from KD for his confident play in the Valley Side’s first home win.

The 28th overall pick came into the NBA world with a scouting report that heavily focused on his defensive abilities. But on the floor, Ryan Dunn came out as an offensive menace. Nevertheless, he was still a rookie and suffered cold feet like anyone else. Tonight, he received a call-up to start the game for the Suns which meant he had to guard either Luka or Kyrie Irving. Dunn ended up guarding the Slovenian baller.

Speaking about his experience of guarding Luka Doncic, Dunn said, “It was fun. It was exciting. A little nervous at first.” He indeed had a solid reason to be nervous, as the management gave him very little time to lock in.

The 21-year-old continued, “I knew 30 minutes before the game that I was starting.” Anyway, the rookie brought out his perimeter defense instincts kick in and put up lockdown defense.

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Ryan Dunn further added, “I kinda knew I was gonna guard him or Kyrie… I was watching a lil bit of films before. It was just fun competing with him… So now it’s just watching films and see what I can do better next time.” Above all, he also had some words of praise for Luka, saying, “You can’t touch him, you just gotta play solid. Hands up, and see what you could do. He is very crafty.” At the same time, his superstar teammate had rousing praise for him.

Moments after disrespecting Doncic, Kevin Durant hails Dunn

Kevin Durant indeed had a field day, showing his aggressive side to the NBA world. Notably, he sunk a tough jumper over Luka Doncic and pulled out a ‘Too small’ gesture. Importantly, KD fed off the attention he received after defeating the Dallas Mavericks at home. However, he also shared his limelight with the rookie sensation at the post-game press conference.

When a reporter asked about Dunn’s debut as a starter, he said, “I just love his poise. I love that he’s physical, I like that he’s actually fouling… Confident in shooting three.” Moreover, he spoke about a crucial three that Dunn shot in the fourth quarter, saying, ” He faked a back screen on me, curled off, two guys kinda confused who they gonna switch, came off and shot the ball confidently knocking in.” 

It’s important to note that it’s not that just Durant, who was impressed by his brilliant offensive ability. The Lakers coach JJ Redick also hailed Dunn. He even cheekily regretted not picking him on the Lakers roster. Redick said, “He’s been awesome. I think it stood out to watch the film and obviously, I saw him in person from a proximity. He’s got a high level of confidence.” It isn’t a co-incidence when two legends of the game appreciate a similar aspect of a rookie game. So we better watch out for Dunn’s upcoming games.