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The Phoenix Suns just managed to pull off an exciting 116-113 win against the Los Angeles Clippers after overtime, thanks to Kevin Durant's incredible performance. The first half was rough for both teams, with poor shooting and missed three-pointers, leaving the Suns with a slim eight-point lead at halftime despite only hitting five two-pointers.
Things changed in the third quarter as the Clippers, led by James Harden and Ivica Zubac, turned the game around and went into the final period with a two-point lead. Zubac was especially dominant, but Devin Booker and Durant helped the Suns fight back to tie the game in the closing minutes.
In a nail-biting finish, the Suns benefited from a successful challenge that shifted the momentum. Durant scored to give Phoenix the lead, but Harden quickly tied it again. With just seconds left, Durant missed a key shot, pushing the game into overtime.
During the extra period, Durant and Bradley Beal stepped up, leading the Suns to a solid advantage. Despite a late push from Harden, who had a chance to equalize with free throws but missed one, the Suns held on for the win. Durant finished with 25 points, while Harden led the Clippers with 29 points, 12 rebounds, and eight assists.
Coach Budenholzer reacts
This game was special for many reasons, and after it, Coach Budenholzer commented on the constant attempts at three-pointers. He believes his team is doing great things in every aspect, but he’s also happy with the progress of basketball, especially in the NBA. Looking back at previous years, the increase in three-point attempts is significant, which is exciting for fans who want to see an entertaining game with plenty of scoring. Of course, opinions vary, and not everyone feels the same way, but it’s clear that in recent years, NBA players are increasingly trying to shoot from beyond the arc.
“I think our sport’s in a great place. I think the skill and talent of our players are in a great place,” Budenholzer said, as quoted by Cronkite News.
Devin Booker, the star of the team, also reflected on the statistics and the emphasis on three-point attempts. The 27-year-old stresses that defense is crucial, but success from beyond the arc boosts the team's confidence and can improve their defensive performance as well. Booker knows his team is not perfect, but he remains hopeful that things will look different moving forward. The talented NBA player is determined for the Suns to make a deep playoff run this season.
“I like it. Obviously you got to take what the defense gives you but even attempting a 3-point shot, not even making it, stretches out defenses and opens up better looks throughout the game. We have a lot of sharpshooters on this team too so the volume should be up.”-Devin Booker said.
Budenholzer highlighted the evolution in basketball, particularly the emergence of four-man and five-man players who can shoot. He stressed that this shift has been a key moment for the sport. He mentioned players like Chet Holmgren and Victor Wembanyama as examples of this trend and expressed hope that Jusuf Nurkić will also contribute to this style of play for his team, viewing it as a positive development for the game.
The Suns have a wealth of talented individuals on their roster who can truly make a difference on the court. However, many NBA teams also boast impressive rosters capable of making a deep playoff run. This experienced coach doesn’t want to focus on the negatives or make comparisons, understanding that what he has can be enough for huge success. As for the team's goals, we'll have to wait and see how the season unfolds.
Kevin Booker on Ryan Dunn
One player who has impressed this season is Ryan Dunn, the 28th overall pick, who has shown during the preseason that he could be a valuable addition to the team. Booker is thrilled with the 21-year-old's performances, noting that he competes at a high level. He emphasized the importance of having passion and drive, which were clearly evident in Dunn's play. Such a player profile is essential for the Suns' serious ambitions this season. Dunn's youth and energy could prove to be crucial for the team's success.
“Ryan (Dunn) specifically, just knowing players’ tendencies already, competing at the highest level,” Booker said.
“He’s young, he’s youthful, he has a lot of energy and he wants to compete.”
Budenholzer did not emphasize his players too much but emphasized that he is excited for what is to come, hoping that his team can really fulfill the expectations. It will be difficult, but the NBA always brings special and unexpected moments.
English (US)