Author: Mark Medina, USA TODAY

Former player and fellow Bahamian Mychal Thompson sees big things for Deandre Ayton in the NBA Finals and as a representative of the islands.

After winning the first of six MVP awards in 1971, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar went on to lead the Bucks to their only NBA title.

Devin Booker is playing heavy minutes and carrying a heavy burden for the Suns, but the young star won’t let the workload affect him in the NBA Finals.

Players have praised Monty Williams for staying calm both after wins and losses. Williams also has stressed to his players to “smell the gym.”

Chris Paul, Devin Booker and Deandre Ayton have learned how to bring the best out in each other, and the three showed it in the Suns’ Game 1 win.

Some league pundits believe the Lakers and Clippers would have beaten the Suns had their star players been healthy. Of course, the Suns don’t agree.

NBA had a 72-game season with games played every other day to maximize value of its TV deals and ensure a more traditional calendar for next season.

Devin Booker is just 24 and appearing in his first career playoffs. But you’d never know it based on how well he’s played.

Devin Booker is just 24 and appearing in his first career playoffs. But you’d never know it based on how well he’s played.