Bol Bol erupted for 25 points, one shy of his career high, to lead the Phoenix Suns to a commanding 125-108 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans on Friday night. The Suns, snapping a three-game losing streak, never trailed in a game where their offense clicked from the opening tip.
Bol was unstoppable early, scoring 10 of Phoenix’s first 20 points as they built a 40-18 lead after the first quarter. His versatility and shooting (5-of-8 from three) set the tone for a Suns team that had lost seven of their last eight games.
Nick Richards added 19 points and a game-high 12 rebounds, while Royce O’Neale provided a spark off the bench with 18 points. Devin Booker and Kevin Durant each contributed 17 points, with Booker dishing out nine assists in a balanced team effort.
The Pelicans, playing without Zion Williamson and CJ McCollum, struggled to keep pace. Rookie Yves Missi matched his season high with 24 points, and Jordan Hawkins also scored 24, but New Orleans couldn’t overcome their slow start.
Phoenix’s defense forced 15 turnovers, converting them into 28 points. The Suns also shot a scorching 52.5% from three (21-of-40), overwhelming the Pelicans’ shorthanded lineup.
Despite a 38-point fourth quarter from New Orleans, the Suns maintained control, leading by as many as 29 points. The win improves Phoenix to 28-32, keeping them in the hunt for a play-in spot in the competitive Western Conference.
For the Pelicans, now 16-44, the loss highlights the challenges of playing without key stars. Kelly Olynyk and Bruce Brown returned to the lineup, combining for 21 points, but it wasn’t enough to overcome Phoenix’s offensive firepower.
