Jose Alvarado didn’t just get into it with Mark Williams and the Phoenix Suns — he helped define who they are becoming. After a heated altercation that escalated tensions, Alvarado embraced the role of villain, and in the process, Phoenix leaned fully into its identity as the NBA’s antihero team. In this episode, we break down what actually happened, why moments like this keep following the Suns, and how Phoenix has stopped trying to be liked — choosing instead to be competitive, physical, and unapologetic. We discuss: - What led to Jose Alvarado starting the confrontation with the Suns - Why Phoenix continues to be cast as the “bad guys” around the league - How this moment fits into the Suns’ growing antihero reputation - Why fans are rallying around this version of the team - Whether embracing this edge actually helps Phoenix win This isn’t about promoting violence — it’s about NBA emotion, rivalry, and identity. Every contender eventually earns a reputation, and the Suns are no longer running from theirs. Do the Suns thrive as the NBA’s antiheroes — or does it hurt them long term? Sound off in the comments and join the debate. 0:00 Intro 2:00 Suns the Anti-Hero 9:00 Aftermath 20:00 All Star voting 24:00 The Lowly Cardinals

The Phoenix Suns have exceeded expectations a third of the way through the 2025-26 season, and have remained above .500 despite a brutal stretch of opponents in December. As the schedule eases up, the Suns also expect to welcome Jalen Green back into the lineup. Will Green's return lead to a surge up the Western Conference standings? Erik Ruby and Gil McGregor are joined by Tim Legler to discuss the Suns' season thus far and their future prospects with Green back in the fold. Follow Erik at @erikruby, Gil at @GilMcGregor_, and the show at @PHNX_Suns.