With a wingspan stretching just over 7-foot-1½ inches, Ryan Dunn is a towering presence on the basketball court, casting a shadow as he patrols the paint. A 6-foot-8 forward who found his beginnings in Virginia, Dunn’s transition from baseball to basketball came after an elbow injury rerouted his athletic ambitions. Now, making waves in the NBA with the Phoenix Suns, Dunn’s journey is one of perseverance and evolution, proving that the path to success isn’t always a straight line.
At the University of Virginia, Dunn honed his skills, leaving a lasting impression with his ability to disrupt opposing offenses. Virginia’s Coach Tony Bennett once remarked, “You're long, you're athletic, you have a chance disrupting offenses,” highlighting the attributes that would segue into Dunn’s professional career. His defensive prowess was further demonstrated by a formidable block rate of 10.6% during his college career. Virginia assistant coach Orlando Vandross shared, “He covers a lot of ground. He can switch. He can rebound. He'll block a shot.” This defensive acumen made him a valuable asset and a nightmare for any opponent trying to score in the paint.
Yet it is not just defense where Dunn has made his mark. His offensive contributions have been equally noteworthy, particularly his development as a shooter. In a preseason game, he showcased his potential by making six out of 11 from beyond the arc. While his regular-season shooting average from three-point range stands at 31.6%, it’s the clutch moments like his game-deciding three-pointer against the Dallas Mavericks that have started to define him. "When you have someone like Kevin Durant and Devin Booker telling you to shoot the ball every time, you're going to get it up," Dunn reflected on this shooting evolution.
This growing confidence was echoed by Phil Beckner, observing Dunn in practice: “He started making every shot. His movements were precise. His movements were confident.” Beckner’s enthusiasm for Dunn’s progress was palpable, further expressed in his affirming, “This guy! It has clicked.” Such development was perhaps unforeseen, leading Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick to candidly admit, "Had I known that Ryan Dunn was a 45% shooter, I think our draft board would've looked a little bit different."
One particular highlight came when Dunn blocked none other than LeBron James at the rim during an NBA game. Such moments have started to build his reputation, stamping his mark on the league. These instances echo his sentiment of wanting recognition, “I want people to know who I am.” Despite the triumphs, Ryan Dunn maintains a humble perspective, committed to team success over personal accolades. "Whatever my role is to help the team, I want to do that to win," underscores his team-first attitude.
Reflecting on his journey, Dunn’s own words capture the unexpected twists and turns that have brought him to this point. "If you would have told me this 10 years ago, I would've thought you were smoking crack, or crazy," he mused, acknowledging the distance he has traveled since his switch from baseball. His philosophy underscores a broader message: "It's not how you start. Everyone has their own race, and everyone has their own journey." Such reflections are a testament to the resilience and adaptability that have characterized his career.
Ryan Dunn’s evolution from a collegiate player with potential to an impactful presence in the NBA is a testament to his determination and work ethic. His blend of defensive acumen and developing shooting prowess makes him a player to watch as he continues to carve out his identity in the league. As someone who covers every inch of the court with purpose, Ryan Dunn’s story is a reminder of how setbacks can redirect paths toward unforeseen success. With the support of teammates encouraging his growth and mentors acknowledging his emerging skill set, the future is bright for this forward who continues to defy expectations.