How the Phoenix Suns’ rookies gave them the spark they’ve been missing.
The Phoenix Suns took on the Sacramento Kings in downtown Phoenix on Friday night, and while the rain poured outside, the Suns were making it rain inside as they made a season-high 24 three-pointers. It was one of their best offensive performances in recent memory, fueled by an infusion of youth and a much-needed jolt of energy.
Ryan Dunn got his first start since February 8. And while he’ll never be a walking bucket, he brings relentless hustle, defensive chaos, and just enough offensive presence to keep defenses honest. His fellow rookie, Oso Ighodaro, also saw plenty of action, thanks in part to Mason Plumlee, who has apparently entered his “Rocky Balboa” phase. Plumlee got tossed for the second straight game after delivering some above-the-shoulders contact to Domantas Sabonis, opening the door for extended minutes from Oso.
The result? A fresh injection of stamina and disruption that had Phoenix buzzing.
Yes, the win helped them gain ground on the Mavericks in the standings, keeping their Play-In hopes alive. But even if the season ends short of a postseason berth, this game was a glimpse at something meaningful: youth is a good thing. Energy is a good thing. Having legs that aren’t made of lead is a good thing.
For one night, the Suns’ young guns not only got their shot. They made the most of it. They say youth is wasted on the young, but for a team desperate for a spark, it was the difference between another frustrating loss and a much-needed win.
Bright Side Baller Season Standings
Bradley Beal notched his 7th tick mark in the ‘ole Bright Side Baller standings after the Suns’ loss to the Rockets on Wednesday night.
Bright Side Baller Nominees
Tyus Jones
20 points (6-of-7, 6-of-6 3PT), 2 rebounds, 2 assists, 0 turnovers, +0 +/-
Kevin Durant
22 points (7-of-15, 4-of-6 3PT), 2 rebounds, 4 assists, 1 block, 3 turnovers, +7 +/-
Devin Booker
22 points (8-of-17, 4-of-10 3PT), 4 rebounds, 13 assists, 1 steal, 3 turnovers, +9 +/-
Ryan Dunn
16 points (6-of-16, 2-of-9 3PT), 5 rebounds, 3 assists, 5 steals, 1 turnover, +5 +/-
Oso Ighodaro
11 points (4-of-5, 0-of-0 3PT), 6 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal, 1 block, +23 +/-
Bradley Beal
15 points (5-of-9, 4-of-7 3PT), 3 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 steal, 1 turnover, -1 +/-
Mason Plumlee
1 ejection
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