Devin Booker scored 31 points to guide the Phoenix Suns to a 120-112 victory over the Utah Jazz on Tuesday night, as both teams kicked off pool play in the NBA Cup.
Booker’s offensive prowess kept Phoenix ahead in a game that saw Utah attempt several rallies, only to be repeatedly thwarted by Phoenix’s precision from beyond the arc.
Bradley Beal supported Booker with 24 points, showcasing his scoring efficiency by hitting 8 of 15 shots, including four 3-pointers.
Grayson Allen added 15 points, with Booker, Beal, and Allen combining for 13 of the team’s 18 successful 3-point attempts.
Mason Plumlee, starting in place of injured center Jusuf Nurkic, made his presence known with a double-double, tallying 15 points and 14 rebounds.
For the Jazz, John Collins delivered a strong performance, leading his team with 29 points and 10 rebounds. Lauri Markkanen and Jordan Clarkson added 17 and 16 points, respectively, while Kyle Filipowski came off the bench to contribute 18 points, keeping Utah competitive throughout the game.
The Suns established control early, leading 54-43 at halftime as they repeatedly connected from deep. Utah managed to chip away at the lead multiple times, even pulling within six points on a dunk by Filipowski early in the fourth quarter. However, Beal immediately responded with back-to-back baskets, stabilizing Phoenix’s lead.
Utah’s offensive strategy focused heavily on attacking the paint, as the Jazz outscored the Suns 58-34 inside, capitalizing on their size advantage and physicality.
However, Phoenix’s 18 three-pointers provided a significant counterweight to Utah’s interior scoring, allowing them to maintain their lead despite the Jazz’s efforts around the basket.
Phoenix made 50% of their shots from the field, including an impressive 46.2% from 3-point range. Utah struggled to contain Phoenix’s perimeter shooters, while turnovers also hurt their chances, with Phoenix converting Utah’s mistakes into fast-break points.
This win marks Phoenix’s ninth victory of the season, bringing their record to 9-2. For Utah, the loss brings them to a 2-8 start in what has been a challenging season thus far.
