Suns Return to Form in Win vs. Warriors
PHOENIX -- The Phoenix Suns got their swagger back.
Losing three-of-four on their road trip, the Suns returned home to handle business in 130-119 fashion over the Golden State Warriors.
The Suns initially got out to a 36-33 lead after the first quarter, setting the pace for what would be a high-scoring, back and forth effort the entire rest of the way. Steph Curry had 17 points and four rebounds in the opening period. Devin Booker wasn't far behind with 11 points of his own in the first 12 minutes of play.
Curry finished with 50 points, which became the first time since April 17 2021 where Curry dropped at least 40 and the Warriors still lost. Tonight was just the 11th time in his career where he finished with 50 points or higher.
Prior to the game, Warriors head coach Steve Kerr mentioned defense was the key to getting momentum on the road.
“I think defense is key on the road, you got to string together some stops. Can’t just be trading baskets, we’ve had a lot of road games where we’ve traded buckets and had a chance down the stretch but never really established the defensive force that is particularly needed on the road so that’s the number one thing," Kerr said.
Defense was anything but had in this matchup, as Phoenix scored 130+ points for the second time all season, both coming at the expense of Golden State. The Warriors now drop to 6-9 on the season.
By halftime, the Suns emerged to a 72-65 lead with three starters at 14 points or more.
Phoenix would see leads as large as 18 in the second half on their way to victory, their second over Golden State this year.
Cameron Payne tied a career-high with 29 points of his own, leading the Suns in scoring.
The Suns hope to build on their winning momentum in a Friday night meeting with the Utah Jazz.
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