Devin Booker, who recently signed a $145 million contract extension with the Phoenix Suns, has solidified his status as one of the NBA’s top players. Known as the team’s 2015 first-round pick, Booker has evolved into Phoenix’s franchise cornerstone and leading force. In a striking recent moment, Golden State Warriors star Jimmy Butler III acknowledged Booker’s dominance in a hypothetical 1v1 matchup.
During a Twitch live stream hosted by FaZe Rug, Butler was asked by Brandon Awadis about a head-to-head game against Booker, set to 11 points. Without hesitation, Butler answered that Booker would win 11-0, admitting complete dominance in this one-on-one scenario.
Jimmy, you vs. Devin Booker 1v1. Who wins and what’s the score? Game to 11,
—Brandon Awadis
Devin Booker. 11-0.
—Jimmy Butler III
Awadis, a confirmed Booker fan, praised Butler’s candid reply, while Rug himself also expressed admiration for Booker, to which Butler responded, “Me too.”
The reaction among fans was divided; some viewed Butler’s admission as an honest confession of Booker’s superiority, while others speculated Butler might have been joking, suggesting he wouldn’t lose so decisively given his own skills.
Statistically, Booker outperformed Butler in the 2024-25 season, averaging 25.6 points, 7.1 assists, and 0.9 steals per game with a 46.1% shooting rate. Meanwhile, Butler contributed 17.9 points, 5.9 assists, 5.4 rebounds, and 1.4 steals while shooting 47.6% from the floor. Despite Booker’s higher scoring and playmaking numbers, Butler’s experience continues to make him a formidable opponent.
The Near-Move That Could Have Paired Booker and Butler
Before joining the Warriors, Jimmy Butler was nearly acquired by the Suns, which would have paired him with Devin Booker ahead of the 2024-25 NBA Playoffs. NBA insider Marc Stein revealed that Phoenix was very interested in Butler, but obstacles such as Bradley Beal’s no-trade clause and sizable contract complicated the negotiations.
Ultimately, Butler signed with Golden State, while the Suns later negotiated a buyout with Beal. This cleared the path for Booker to lead a revamped Phoenix roster. As the 2025 offseason proceeds, both players are preparing for another competitive year, each aiming to capture an NBA championship.
Significance of the Statement and Future Expectations
Jimmy Butler’s surprising admission sheds light on the respect Booker commands among elite players and highlights the latter’s 1v1 skills, reinforcing his influence on and off the court. Given Booker’s steady growth and consistency with the Suns, his perceived 1v1 dominance serves as a testament to his development into a franchise leader.
With Butler and Booker both seeking NBA titles in upcoming seasons, their performances and potential matchups will continue drawing fan interest and media attention. Butler’s candid answer adds an intriguing dynamic to their ongoing careers, emphasizing the competitive edge Booker holds in individual skill challenges like the 1v1 format.