The potential bankruptcy of Hooters has raised concerns for NBA All-Star Devin Booker. Following reports that the restaurant chain may be facing Chapter 11, the Phoenix Suns guard expressed his worries on social media. “Plz don’t go @Hooters,” Booker tweeted after his team’s victory over the Chicago Bulls on Saturday.
Booker isn’t alone in his apprehension; many others have taken to social media to voice their concerns, including golf influencer Paige Spiranac, who tweeted, “Not on my watch,” in response to the news.
Hooters of America is reportedly collaborating with creditors to restructure its $300 million debt through a Chapter 11 filing. The company is working with the law firm Ropes & Gray to prepare for this filing, although plans are still in the works. The chain has already closed around 40 locations nationwide due to declining business, though none of these closures have occurred in Arizona, where Booker plays.
In 2021, Hooters sold approximately $300 million in asset-backed bonds as part of its financial strategy. As Hooters navigates these challenges, Booker is focused on helping the Suns improve their performance this season. Currently, Phoenix holds a record of 27-29 and sits 11th in the Western Conference, which would exclude them from the Play-In Tournament if the season ended today.
In his 10th NBA season, all with the Suns, the 28-year-old Booker is averaging 26.0 points, 6.7 assists, and 4.0 rebounds.