Dominican basketball veteran Al Horford extended his congratulations to rising star Koby Brea this week, celebrating the latter’s entry into the NBA. The 6-foot-7 rookie, selected by the Phoenix Suns, represents the growing presence of Dominican talent in professional basketball.
From Kentucky Rivals to Dominican Basketball Ambassadors
Though once opponents in the SEC—Horford as a two-time national champion with Florida and Brea a standout sharpshooter for Kentucky—the two players united in pride over their shared Dominican heritage. Brea now joins an elite group of just five Dominican players currently active in the NBA, alongside veterans like Horford himself, Boston’s Karl-Anthony Towns, Portland’s Justin Minaya, and New Orleans’ Lester Quinones.
Al Horford took to social media to welcome Brea to the professional ranks and highlight both the honor and responsibility that come with being drafted.
“Hello Koby, it’s Al Horford. I want to wish you all the luck and all of the best this year,”
Horford said.
“You’ve worked hard to get to this point and this place. Being drafted in the NBA is a privilege and it’s something you only get to experience once in your life. It’s a very special moment for you and for your family, but it’s also the beginning of your professional career.”
He added,
“You have to take that challenge and do your best to keep getting better every day. I wish you all the best as a Dominican, we’re here rooting for you. All the best to you.”
This message reflects the strong sense of community and support among Dominican players in the league.
Koby Brea’s Path to the NBA and Rising Expectations
Brea was picked 41st overall by the Suns, joining an organization where former Kentucky teammate Devin Booker already shines in the backcourt. His collegiate career showcased his elite shooting ability, particularly his three-point shooting, where he achieved a remarkable 43.5 percent accuracy last season. This skill has drawn significant praise and clear expectations from Phoenix’s front office.
Suns general manager Brian Gregory emphasized Brea’s shooting talent:
“The one thing is he, obviously, he’s proven during his entire career at Dayton and at Kentucky, how good he is shooting the ball. But every year he’s gotten better and better and added another dimension to the shooting. … He is an NBA three-point shooter.”
These comments signal the team’s confidence that Brea will seamlessly transition to the professional level and contribute immediately with his shooting prowess.
Koby Brea Reflects on His NBA Journey
Speaking about hearing his name called during the draft, Brea reflected on his long-standing passion for basketball:
“I just thought about the beginning and where it all started. Being four years old, not knowing where this game is gonna take me, I just knew that I really loved that orange basketball. Knowing now that I’m here, in the NBA, it’s crazy.”
This emotional moment marked the realization of a dream nurtured from childhood, emphasizing the deep connection Brea has with the sport.
Looking Ahead to Brea’s Professional Debut
Koby Brea is set to make his NBA Summer League debut in Las Vegas on Friday, July 11 at 9 p.m. ET, with the game airing live on ESPN. This event will be a crucial opportunity to showcase his talent and begin making an impact at the professional level. With the backing of the Dominican basketball community and veterans like Horford, Brea is poised to carry forward the legacy of Dominican players in the NBA.
This new chapter for both Brea and Dominican basketball is significant, as their presence continues to grow in the league, inspiring the next generation of athletes from the island to pursue their NBA aspirations.