Early career and Nuggets tenure
Gillespie began his professional journey with the Denver Nuggets on a two-way contract after starring at Villanova. He was undrafted in 2022 but earned a spot with the Nuggets’ NBA Summer League squad. A setback came in July 2022 when he sustained a leg injury, delaying his NBA debut that season. On a two-way contract, his 2022-23 earnings were reported to be about $508,891.
Progress with the Suns and two-way deals
Gillespie later joined the Phoenix Suns, where his development continued. For the 2023-24 season, he remained on a two-way agreement, with reported earnings around $559,782. In July 2024, the Suns added him on another two-way contract, with a base salary reported at $578,577. Ahead of the 2025-26 season, Gillespie accepted a qualifying offer worth $2.2 million, marking a significant step in his rising career.
NBA on-court performance
During his time with the Nuggets, Gillespie appeared in 24 games off the bench, averaging 9.4 minutes per game. He shot 46.4% from the field and 39.5% from three-point range, averaging 3.6 points per game.
With the Suns, Gillespie’s role expanded. In his first stint with the Suns, he started 9 of 33 games, posting a 43.3% three-point shooting rate and averaging 5.9 points per game. In the 2025-26 season, he played in nearly every regular-season game, averaging 28.5 minutes per contest and putting up 12.7 points per game with 40.1% from three. He also contributed 4.6 assists and 4.1 rebounds per game. In the playoffs, he started three of four games, averaging 10.5 points per game with a 40.0% three-point mark.
Contract milestone
The most notable development is Gillespie’s four-year, $48 million contract signed in June 2026, which reflects his value and potential as a sharpshooter and versatile guard. This deal positions him as a stable contributor on a front-office projection for continued production and leadership on the floor.
Playing style and impact
Gillespie is known for his shooting ability, especially from beyond the arc, and his capability to contribute as a secondary playmaker. His growth from a two-way contract to a multi-year agreement underscores his adaptability and readiness to take on bigger roles when called upon. As he continues to develop, teams will rely on his shooting efficiency, floor spacing, and decision-making to complement a driven guard group.
Looking ahead
Gillespie’s trajectory shows a player who consistently carved out a role through hard work, improved shooting, and a willingness to take on increased responsibilities. The new four-year contract should provide him with stability to keep refining his game and contributing across scoring, playmaking, and defense.
In summary, Collin Gillespie’s career progression—from an undrafted two-way player to a four-year, $48 million contract—highlights his persistence and growing impact in the NBA. As he continues to develop, he remains a promising guard capable of providing shooting, depth, and leadership to his team.
