Phoenix Suns dominate Pacers in 133-98 rout, extending winning streak to five games
The Phoenix Suns showcased their championship pedigree on Thursday night, defeating the Indiana Pacers 133-98 to improve their record to 8-5 this season. Wearing their celebrated “The Valley” jerseys, the Suns played reminiscent of their 2021 NBA Finals squad, marking their fifth consecutive victory and seventh win in their last eight games. Dillon Brooks led the charge with a season-high 32 points, while Devin Booker added 33, demonstrating their offensive firepower. Even without key players Jalen Green and Mark Williams, the Suns effectively stifled a Pacers team struggling at 1-10.
First Quarter Highlights
The game began with an energetic pace, as the Pacers initially took a 17-15 lead while shooting an impressive 60% from the field. However, the Suns found their footing and reclaimed the lead with just 2:30 left in the first quarter. Booker briefly left the game after a minor injury scare involving Andrew Nembhard, but once back on the court, the Suns surged ahead. They closed the quarter strong, leading 31-23, with Brooks contributing 12 points while Indiana held a slight edge in rebounding, 14-6.
Second Quarter Surge
The Suns ignited the second quarter with a commanding 16-6 run, prompting Pacers coach Rick Carlisle to call a timeout in a bid to halt their momentum. A minor scuffle led to technical fouls for Pascal Siakam and Royce O’Neale, but the game continued with intensity. Phoenix suffered another blow when Grayson Allen exited due to a knee injury during a drive to the basket. Despite the setback, the Suns maintained control, closing the half with a 10-3 run to lead 70-52 at the break, shooting a remarkable 61% from the field and establishing an 18-point advantage.
Third Quarter Action
With Allen sidelined, Collin Gillespie stepped into the starting role for the Suns. The Pacers faced their own injury woes, losing Aaron Nesmith during the game. Indiana attempted to chip away at the deficit, but the Suns responded with a flurry of scoring, extending their lead back to 18. Carlisle was forced to call another timeout, but Booker continued his dominance, scoring ten consecutive points to push the Suns ahead 106-84 as the quarter came to a close.
Fourth Quarter Finish
An early three-pointer from Gillespie in the final quarter ballooned the Suns’ lead to 31 points, effectively sealing any hopes the Pacers had for a comeback. Brooks exited to a standing ovation with 7:45 left on the clock, as the Suns shifted their focus to their bench players. This depth paid off, as Phoenix executed a staggering 20-0 run, with fans at the Mortgage Matchup Center beginning to leave with under five minutes remaining. The Suns closed out the game in commanding fashion, earning the applause of the crowd for their impressive performance.
Looking Ahead
The Suns will look to continue their momentum as they host the Atlanta Hawks on Sunday, aiming to extend their winning streak even further.
