Phoenix Suns blaze past Pelicans in intense match featuring ejections
The Phoenix Suns wrapped up a thrilling back-to-back sweep against the New Orleans Pelicans with a 123-114 victory on Saturday night. This win not only improved the Suns’ record to 18-13 but also solidified their dominance over the Pelicans in the season series, now leading 3-0. The game featured a fiery exchange late in the third quarter, resulting in ejections for both Jose Alvarado and Mark Williams due to an altercation.
First Quarter Highlights
The Suns faced an early deficit but quickly ignited their offense with an 8-0 run, seizing their first lead of the night and prompting a timeout from Pelicans coach James Borrego. Although Phoenix maintained a slim advantage for much of the quarter, New Orleans managed to edge ahead 33-32 by the end of the first. Trey Murphy shone brightly for the Pelicans, leading all scorers with 11 points, while New Orleans struggled with a shooting percentage of just 35%.
Second Quarter Surge
Phoenix found its rhythm in the second quarter, establishing a significant 40-34 lead. Collin Gillespie was instrumental in this surge, knocking down his first four three-point attempts and helping the Suns start the night with an impressive 11-for-21 from beyond the arc. As the quarter progressed, Phoenix’s lead grew, culminating in a 65-55 advantage at halftime. Gillespie led all scorers with 15 points, and the Suns showcased their dominance on the boards, securing 36 rebounds in the first half alone.
Third Quarter Tensions
The Pelicans opened the third quarter with a swift 8-0 run, prompting a quick timeout from Suns coach Jordan Ott. Despite a flurry of six turnovers early in the quarter, Phoenix managed to maintain a seven-point lead heading into the next TV timeout. An unexpected turn of events unfolded when Mark Williams was ejected for fighting Alvarado, while Dillon Brooks, who had been tagged with a foul earlier, remained in the game. The Suns entered the fourth quarter with a 93-85 lead, setting the stage for a dramatic finish.
Fourth Quarter Climax
As the final quarter kicked off, the Suns quickly pushed their lead back into double digits, aided by a series of three-pointers even with key players like Devin Booker and Dillon Brooks resting on the bench. However, a resilient Pelicans squad clawed their way back, narrowing the gap to just three points with four minutes remaining. Responding to Ott’s strategic adjustments, the Suns went on a crucial 7-0 run, solidifying their advantage. Royce O’Neale’s three-pointer in the closing moments extended Phoenix’s lead back to double digits, sealing the victory as the final buzzer echoed through the Smoothie King Center.
The Suns demonstrated both skill and tenacity, navigating through the challenges posed by the Pelicans while showcasing their depth and determination.
