Blue Devil Country

Duke Basketball Treasure Tallies Another Win as Suns Starter

Former Duke basketball star Grayson Allen is a reliable starter alongside superstars.
Matt Giles|
Former Duke basketball guard Grayson Allen (Rob Gray-USA TODAY Sports)

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Duke basketball great Grayson Allen has played and started all 12 of the Phoenix Suns' games this season, while the title contenders have dealt with injuries to backcourt sensations Devin Booker and Bradley Beal. And with Beal reportedly out at least the next three weeks with a lower back strain, Allen can continue to showcase his value as a starter in the league.

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The 28-year-old Jacksonville, Fla., native, who came off the board 21st at the 2018 NBA Draft following four years with the Blue Devils, is 6-6 as a starter in his first season in Phoenix. That starting lineup currently features Allen, Booker, Eric Gordon, Kevin Durant, and Jusuf Nurkic.

On Friday night, the Suns won 131-128 on the road against the Utah Jazz, where Allen began his professional career.

Allen, who was traded from the Bucks to the Suns before training camp, finished with only 10 points, one rebound, and one assist across his 30 minutes on the floor in Utah. He was far from the star of the show, although his two made free throws with 7.1 seconds remaining in the fourth quarter helped seal the victory.

He was again efficient, shooting 2-for-4 from deep (2-for-2 at the line) and committing zero turnovers.

While it's still early, note that Grayson Allen, a full-time Bucks starter alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo & Co. for two seasons, is averaging a career-high 12.2 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game with the Suns (his fourth franchise following stints with the Jazz, Memphis Grizzlies, and Bucks).

Furthermore, the 2015 Duke basketball national champ sits ninth in the league this season with his career-high 49.2 shooting percentage beyond the arc. That's as a high-volume sharpshooter, as he's averaging 2.7 makes from downtown on 5.4 attempts per outing.

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Matt Giles
MATT GILES

Matt Giles is the editor and publisher of Duke Blue Devils on SI, North Carolina Tar Heels on SI, and NC State Wolfpack on SI, making him a key source for comprehensive coverage of these storied college basketball programs. Since joining SI in 2022, Matt has been dedicated to providing in-depth analysis, breaking news, and exclusive content on all three teams. He covers everything from game previews and recaps to player profiles and recruiting updates. Matt's expert knowledge of these teams has made his work a go-to resource for fans and followers of Duke, NC State, and UNC. As publisher, he shapes the editorial direction, ensuring that the most relevant and timely information reaches his audience.

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