PHOENIX (KYMA, KECY) - The Phoenix Suns opened their season with a statement win, erasing a 20-point deficit to beat the Sacramento Kings 120-116 on Wednesday night at Footprint Center.
Devin Booker led the way with 31 points, five rebounds, and five assists showing why he remains the heart of this Suns team entering his 11th NBA season. The comeback also marked a successful debut for new head coach Jordan Ott, who picked up his first victory in charge.
Dillon Brooks made his presence felt in his Suns debut, scoring 22 points and bringing his signature defensive edge including some intense late-game moments guarding DeMar DeRozan. Grayson Allen added 18 points, while Royce O’Neale hit a crucial three-pointer early in the fourth quarter to give Phoenix its first lead of the half.
After trailing 71-54 at halftime, the Suns stormed back behind Booker’s scoring and a tighter defensive effort that held the Kings to just 21 points in the third quarter. Sacramento tied it late behind a Malik Monk jumper, but Brooks responded by sinking three free throws after being fouled on a three-point attempt putting Phoenix back in front for good.
Zach LaVine led the Kings with 30 points, and DeRozan added 29, while newly signed veteran Russell Westbrook chipped in six points and six rebounds off the bench. The Kings were without All-Star center Domantas Sabonis, sidelined with a hamstring strain.
The Suns will hit the road to face the Los Angeles Clippers on Friday, while the Kings return home to host the Utah Jazz.