Josh Okogie: From Lockdown Defender to Aspiring Photographer
Josh Okogie: From Lockdown Defender to Aspiring Photographer
Phoenix Suns guard Josh Okogie has always been recognized for his defensive prowess and the infectious energy he brings to the hardwood. Known for his hustle and commitment on both ends of the court, Okogie has carved out a reputation as a tenacious defender. However, while basketball remains his primary focus, Okogie has discovered a new passion that has been capturing his imagination—photography.
This summer, Okogie has been channeling his enthusiasm into the art of photography, an interest that blossomed during a vacation in Milan, Italy, coinciding with Fashion Week. Armed with a Sony a7 III camera, Okogie's foray into photography began modestly but quickly evolved into an earnest commitment, largely fueled by the encouragement of a friend.
"I'm still not good. I'll say 90-95% of my pictures are BS, but I feel like I've gotten better -- slightly -- each day I've taken pictures," Okogie admits with a blend of humor and humility. Despite his candid self-assessment, his dedication to improving his craft is evident.
Capturing the Game
Transitioning from playing the game to trying to capture its essence through a lens proved to be a unique challenge for Okogie. He took on the fast-paced environment of live basketball photography, starting with the NBA Creator Cup celebrity game, followed by the Los Angeles Lakers-Houston Rockets summer league game, and the Phoenix Suns vs. the Golden State Warriors matchup in Las Vegas.
"It's very fast. Every time somebody dunks, by the time I take a picture, he's already done finished the dunk and he's already playing defense," Okogie reflects. The speed of the game is something Okogie is still adjusting to, but he remains determined to find the right angles and moments to get the best shots.
Okogie has also looked to seasoned professionals for inspiration and guidance. He holds a particular respect for David Sherman of the Minnesota Timberwolves and Barry Gossage of Phoenix, noting the impressive body of work both photographers have amassed over the years.
Aiming to Capture Emotion
For Okogie, photography is more than just snapping images; it’s about conveying the emotion behind each moment. "Because you want the picture to replicate the feeling of the play for those who weren't there," he explains. This insight reveals how his approach to photography mirrors his approach to basketball—intensity, passion, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
Looking ahead, Okogie has plans to further his skills by covering WNBA games during the offseason, continuing to hone his ability to capture the raw emotions of live sports.
Commitment on and off the Court
While Okogie's interest in photography is burgeoning, his commitment to basketball and the Phoenix Suns remains steadfast. Recently, he solidified his future with the team by signing a two-year, $16 million extension. Okogie is determined to contribute his trademark energy on both sides of the floor, a sentiment he has already discussed with new Suns coach Mike Budenholzer.
"My mentality is just to go out there and just try to give this team the energy that they need on both sides of the floor," Okogie states. He envisions himself as the driving force, or the "motor," of the team, intent on galvanizing his teammates and keeping the momentum high.
The upcoming season in the Western Conference promises to be highly competitive, a challenge that Okogie relishes. "The West is going to be really competitive next year. I feel like we can be as good as we want to be. I feel like our ceiling is as high as we make it. I'm excited. I feel like if we get a good training camp and we start to jell, the sky's the limit for us."
Okogie's optimism is palpable. As the Phoenix Suns gear up for the new season, his influence both on and off the court—whether through lockdown defense or capturing pivotal moments on camera—will undoubtedly be a significant asset. Whether it's in the midst of a fast break or through the lens of his camera, Josh Okogie continues to chase excellence with boundless energy.
