Dillon Brooks and LeBron James’ rivalry was one of the most entertaining NBA storylines last season, with the Phoenix Suns wing repeatedly finding ways to get under James’ skin both on and off the court. Brooks even attended Game 4 of the Lakers’ playoff series against the Oklahoma City Thunder, where he watched James and Los Angeles get eliminated. Even after James’ move to Philadelphia, Brooks appears unlikely to let the rivalry fade.
The two will have limited opportunities to face each other during the 2026-27 season, but one matchup has already grabbed attention. The Philadelphia 76ers and Suns are scheduled to meet on December 30, LeBron’s 42nd birthday, giving Brooks another chance to go up against his longtime rival. Brooks is also coming off the first season of his career averaging more than 20 points per game, adding to the confidence he has carried into his second season in Phoenix.
Suns’ Dillon Brooks Reacts to LeBron James Birthday Matchup With 76ers
Dillon Brooks is looking forward to facing LeBron James when the Philadelphia 76ers visit the Phoenix Suns on December 30, which happens to be James’ 42nd birthday. Asked about the matchup, Brooks made it clear the date only adds extra motivation. “That’s more ammunition for me to win that game, but should be fun,” Brooks said. The two have built a heated rivalry through years of on-court trash talk and physical battles, including another clash during the Suns’ meeting with the Los Angeles Lakers last December.
With James now in Philadelphia, Brooks and the former Lakers star will have fewer chances to renew their rivalry during the 2026-27 season. Brooks said he has no regrets about that reduced schedule, replying, “No, I’m not at all.” He added, “But it’ll build up for the games that we play,” suggesting the limited meetings could make their matchups even more intense.
The NBA confirmed the December 30 showdown when it released the complete 2026-27 schedule on August 11. James is set to make his 76ers debut against the defending champion New York Knicks on October 20, while Philadelphia will face Phoenix again on February 17 in Philadelphia.
Dillon Brooks Signs $73 Million Extension to Remain With Phoenix Suns
Phoenix Suns forward Dillon Brooks has agreed to a three-year, $73 million contract extension that keeps him in Phoenix through the 2029-30 season, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania. The new deal follows the strongest season of Brooks’ nine-year NBA career. After arriving in Phoenix in the Kevin Durant trade, Brooks averaged career-best numbers of 20.2 points, 3.6 rebounds and 1.8 assists per game, while shooting over 43% from the field. He appeared in 56 games after missing time with a fractured left hand and returned for the playoffs as Phoenix finished 45-37 and earned the No. 7 seed.
The Suns have made continuity a priority this offseason, keeping Brooks while also handing multiyear deals to Collin Gillespie, Jordan Goodwin and Mark Williams. Phoenix also added Miles Bridges and Luke Kennard as it looks to build on last season’s playoff return, despite being swept by Oklahoma City in the opening round. With Brooks now secured long-term, the Suns will head into 2026-27 with a familiar core and added expectations.
