The Phoenix Suns (9-2) fended off a late scare from the Utah Jazz (2-8), clinching a 120-112 win on November 11. The Suns kicked off the NBA Emirates Cup on a huge note, while the Jazz looked like they were out of contention this year. Both teams are in West Group B, a stacked lineup featuring the Oklahoma City Thunder, Los Angeles Lakers, and San Antonio Spurs.
Devin Booker was the driving force, exploding for 31 points—including 15 in the fourth quarter—and dishing out 4 assists. Bradley Beal was right behind him with 24 points and 4 assists. Grayson Allen added 15 off the bench. The Phoenix was on fire from a distance as the trio combined for 13 of the team’s three-pointers. Plumlee manned the middle, racking up a double-double with 15 points and 14 rebounds.
For the Jazz, John Collins delivered a phenomenal performance with 29 points, 10 rebounds, and 3 steals. Jordan Clarkson bolstered his squad from the bench with 16 points and 8 assists while Lauri Markkanen dropped 17 points with 5 assists.
Booker Went Into Takeover Mode
Both teams started slow, but Phoenix gradually pulled ahead late in the first and emerged with a 12-point lead. The Jazz found their groove in the second, cutting the deficit to 5. However, the Suns responded with a punishing 12-0 run, extending their lead to (49-32). Utah fought back, but the Suns held their ground, maintaining a comfortable advantage heading to the second half.
The Jazz’s comeback bid gained momentum in the third, as they closed the gap to (76-70). Allen came to the rescue, hitting a pair of three-pointers to stem the tide. But the Jazz’s rally continued, with Filipowski bringing them within 6 in the fourth at (89-83). However, Beal responded with consecutive baskets to keep them at bay. Then Booker took charge, sinking three straight triples to establish a firm control with a minute remaining and seal the win.
Up Next
The Suns go against the Kings tomorrow while the Jazz clash with the Mavericks on Friday.
