With Devin Booker putting in yet another standout performance, the Phoenix Suns defeated the Charlotte Hornets 101-96, celebrating their fourth win in their last five games.
The American star was the standout performer for the winners, finishing the game with 30 points, 7 assists, and 3 steals. In fact, it was he who sealed the victory in the final seconds, just as the visitors were attempting to get back into the game.
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It was also a special night for Miles Bridges, who faced his former team for the first time. The 28-year-old forward, who spent the first seven seasons of his career in Charlotte and ranks third on the team’s all-time scoring list, finished the game with 11 points and 6 rebounds.
Bridges had been traded to Phoenix, with Grayson Allen and Royce O’Neal heading in the opposite direction, and this time he had the chance to celebrate against the team where he made his name in the NBA.
The Suns came out strong, with Booker scoring 13 points in the first quarter, leading his team to a 28-22 lead. In the second quarter, the home team extended their lead to 48-31 following a 15-4 run, with Bridges capping off the run with a layup.
Charlotte, however, managed to rally before halftime, cutting the deficit to 55-50 on a three-pointer by Grayson Allen, and kept their hopes alive until the final seconds.
With 28 seconds left, Booker hit a three-pointer to make it 97-91, but Royce O’Neal responded with a four-point play, cutting the lead to two. That’s when Bridges stepped up, sinking two crucial free throws, while Booker stole the ball and added two more from the line, sealing the final score at 101-96.
In addition to Booker, Dillon Brooks (15 points) and Colin Gillespie (13 points) provided significant support.
For the Hornets, Kobe White led the scoring with 21 points, while Naz Reid added 16, shooting 6-for-18. Grayson Allen scored 14 points and Christian Anderson added 13.
NBA Games:
Philadelphia 76ers vs. Toronto Raptors 123-112
Washington Wizards vs. Detroit Pistons 140–144 (2 OT)
Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Dallas Mavericks 133–94
Phoenix Suns vs. Charlotte Hornets 101-96
*Photo source: AP
