PHOENIX SUNS

Suns PG Cam Payne’s jersey hoisted in rafters at Murray State

Jan 14, 2023, 8:02 PM | Updated: 8:13 pm

(Twitter screenshot/
Murray State MBB)...

(Twitter screenshot/ Murray State MBB)

Saturday was Cameron Payne Day at Murray State, as the Phoenix Sun’s alma mater held a jersey retirement ceremony at halftime of its game against UIC.

Payne was an AP All-American in 2014-15 for the Racers, and his No. 1 uniform was enshrined in the rafters at CFSB Center alongside former Suns guard Isaiah Canaan and Memphis Grizzlies All-Star Ja Morant.

His Phoenix teammates and head coach, Monty Williams, attended to celebrate the honor.

Payne played two seasons at Murray State from 2013-15 and racked up accolades such as Naismith Trophy semifinalist, Cousy Award Watch List, Ohio Valley Conference MVP and OVC Freshman of the Year.

He averaged 18.4 points and 5.7 assists per game in 67 contests.

The Racers won 16 straight games in 2014-15 and finished conference play undefeated with Payne leading the way.

Murray State posted the video reaction to Payne finding out his jersey would be retired ahead of the big day:

Payne was taken with the No. 14 pick in the 2015 NBA Draft by the Oklahoma City Thunder, one selection after the Suns took Devin Booker.

At the time, no Racer had been taken higher in the draft than Payne, although Morant was picked No. 2 overall in 2019.

Payne is in his eighth NBA season, fourth with Phoenix.

It has been quite the year for the Suns and celebrating achievements at school.

Booker’s Moss Point High School uniform was retired and Chris Paul received his bachelor’s degree from Winston-Salem State University in December.

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