Suns Defeat Rockets in Physical Battle
The Phoenix Suns (35-24) edged out the Houston Rockets (25-34) on Thursday night at Footprint Center by a score of 110-105.
Phoenix had to once again utilize Royce O'Neale in the starting lineup in the absences of Eric Gordon and Bradley Beal due to injury.
Devin Booker started off red-hot, scoring 20 points in the first quarter - which was more than the entire Rockets team was able to put out - a paltry 17 point showing.
The Suns scored 33 points in the first quarter behind Booker and strong supplemental play from the rest of the team.
Phoenix largely continued the momentum built in the second quarter, taking a 64-53 lead into halftime.
The Suns held the Rockets to around 35% from the floor in the first half in a notably strong defensive showing.
Phoenix maintained the 11-point lead going into the fourth quarter - posting an 86-75 lead after 36 minutes.
Booker and the Rockets' Cam Whitmore exchanged words and lead to the benches partially clearing with 6:41 left in the game. Both players were tabbed with technical fouls.
The Suns ultimately overcame a groggy fourth quarter effort and secured the win over a Rockets team that refused to give up.
Key Performances
Devin Booker - 35 PTS, 7 REB, 3 AST
Kevin Durant - 24 PTS, 6 REB, 6 AST
Jusuf Nurkic - 16 PTS, 13 REB, 3 BLK
Fred VanVleet - 21 PTS, 6 REB, 5 AST
Jalen Green - 34 PTS, 5 REB, 3 STL
What's Next
Phoenix hosts Houston once again on Saturday night in a night where Amar'e Stoudemire will have his jersey retirement ceremony.
