Suns Rookies, Vets React to Backpack Prank

FLAGSTAFF -- If you want see the Suns on the road this year, the team’s crop of rookies just got a bit easier to spot after Wednesday’s training camp practice at NAU.

Phoenix’s veterans came together to purchase and deliver colorful kids backpacks for the first-year players to wear whenever the team is on the move this season.

“They have to bring it with them on every bus, every flight – and if they don’t, we have a little fine for them,” Jared Dudley said, smiling. “It’s just paying your dues.”

Characters adorned on the makeshift luggage include Tinkerbell, Elsa from “Frozen,” and Hello Kitty. Alan Williams, who had his first NBA contract guaranteed last month, saw the gag gift as a badge of honor.

“I think it’s kind of cool. All players go through it,” Williams said. “You have to embrace it. It lets you know that you’re a part of the team.”

Added Head Coach Earl Watson: “I was a rookie once. I had different things I had to do. To make it to the NBA, it’s a privilege. We understand that. So we are just grateful. It’s an attitude of gratitude.”

The fun might not be over either. P.J. Tucker hinted that he has something up his sleeve for Saturday’s open scrimmage at the J. Lawrence Walkup Skydome on NAU’s campus.

“Halloween, that’s all I can tell you,” Tucker said. “You’ll see some funny stuff on Saturday, that’s for sure. I’ve told you all I can tell you. I don’t want them finding out.”

You can RSVP for Saturday's free event here. Those who sign up will be eligible for autographed merchandise, Suns apparel and more.

"You definitely have to have a sense of humor," Eric Bledsoe said. "It’s not always serious when it comes to basketball. With everything we have going on, having a little fun adds to the chemistry here."

Case in point: The prank Devin Booker endured as a rookie a season ago, as pictured below.