Who would they be?
Professional sports teams across different leagues often invite a multitude of comparisons, driven by their competitive nature and rich histories. Each franchise carries a distinct narrative, shaped not only by triumphs and failures but also by legendary players, unforgettable moments, and the evolution of their identities over time. Fans and analysts alike frequently draw parallels, analyzing everything from playing styles to leadership dynamics.
The perception of teams within the sports landscape — affected by media portrayal, fan loyalty, and historical rivalries — only intensifies this tendency to compare. These comparisons can illuminate broader themes within sports, such as resilience, adaptability, and the pursuit of greatness, allowing fans to connect across sports and eras.
Or failure.
Whether we like to admit it or not, the Phoenix Suns have yet to win it all. Okay. We admit it on the reg. The Suns are 4,525-2,249 all-time, good for the fifth-best winning percentage in the history of the NBA (.5.37). Yet they’ve yet to hoist the Larry.
If you were to compare them to an NFL franchise, who would it be? The Buffalo Bills and Minnesota Vikings might come to mind. Both teams have made numerous Super Bowl appearances without securing a championship, leaving their fan bases to endure decades of heartache in their quest to reach the pinnacle of success. The struggle to overcome near misses and achieve ultimate glory mirrors the Suns’ own journey, resonating deeply with fans who have witnessed their team’s highs and lows in pursuit of a title.
Kevin Durant was recently asked this same question on the Up and Adams Show. His response? The Kansas City Chiefs.
What’s the @Suns NFL comp?
KD says the CHIEFS.
(And also not the Bills) @UpAndAdamsShow @KDTrey5 pic.twitter.com/iqT4ilneBE— Kay Adams (@heykayadams) October 18, 2024
“I would say the Chiefs. We bring that championship mentality every day,” KD responded to host Kay Adams.
As for the comp to the Bills? “Nah. They known for getting there and losing. I don’t wanna be one of those guys, so I’d rather go with the champs and take on that mentality.”
It’s an intriguing perspective. The hope is that the Suns can emulate the Kansas City Chiefs, a team that has not only won back-to-back Super Bowls but is also striving to become the first NFL team to achieve a three-peat. Success begins with mentality, which Durant identifies as the Chiefs’ defining characteristic. If the Suns can adopt a similar mindset, it could pave the way for their own pursuit of greatness in Phoenix.
Who would you compare the Suns to as an NFL counterpart?