Report: Former Wisconsin star turned down millions to join Phoenix Suns

Former Wisconsin Badgers star Nigel Hayes-Davis is returning to the NBA with the Phoenix Suns, turning down a significantly more lucrative contract offer from his European club, Fenerbahce Istanbul. Hayes-Davis initially entered the NBA as an undrafted free agent with the New York Knicks after the 2016-17 season, appearing briefly in games for the Lakers, Raptors, and Kings before embarking on a European career in 2017-18.

Hayes-Davis found considerable success playing in Europe, particularly with Fenerbahce. His achievements include earning All-Second Team Turkish League honors in 2023, winning back-to-back Turkish Cups in 2024 and 2025 (earning MVP both times), and culminating in becoming a EuroLeague Champion and Finals MVP in 2025. Following his 2024 season, NBA star Kevin Durant recommended an NBA team sign him.

Despite receiving a three-year, $9 million contract offer from Fenerbahce this offseason, Hayes-Davis prioritized his long-standing goal of returning to the NBA. He actively pursued this for several years and ultimately accepted a one-year, fully guaranteed $2 million deal with the Phoenix Suns. To facilitate this move, Hayes-Davis paid Fenerbahce $1 million to buy out his existing contract.

Hayes-Davis now joins a Suns team aiming to return to the playoffs after missing last season. Under new head coach Jordan Ott, he will compete for playing time at small forward alongside newly acquired Dillon Brooks and veteran Royce O'Neale.