PHOENIX – Actor Austin Butler‘s courtside reaction to Collin Gillespie‘s standout performance during the Phoenix Suns‘ 125-108 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers on Monday night sparked a viral moment,revealing Butler’s unfamiliarity with the rising NBA guard. A video of butler looking perplexed as Gillespie scored went viral on social media, quickly becoming a meme.
Gillespie, who scored a career-high 28 points with eight 3-pointers, has rapidly emerged as a key contributor for the Suns.While Butler, known for his role in the film Elvis, may not have been aware of Gillespie’s abilities, the guard’s recent play demonstrates a notable upward trajectory. Gillespie was a two-way player last season, and his current form is a testament to his development.
The moment quickly drew comparisons to a 2021 meme featuring former Houston Rocket Christian Wood and Shaquille O’Neal. Gillespie has now scored in double figures for 10 consecutive games, with four of those exceeding 20 points. he recently shot over 40% from three-point range, making at least three triples in his last eight games, including six against the Oklahoma City Thunder on Friday.
Starting in place of the ill Grayson Allen, Gillespie’s performance underscores his growing importance to the Suns, notably with Jalen Green remaining absent for 12 straight games. Suns coach Jordan Ott has emphasized Gillespie’s confidence, a trait recognized by teammate Dillon Brooks, who nicknamed him “Villain Jr.” during the preseason.
