Devin Booker delivered a sensational performance for the Phoenix Suns, scoring a season-high 52 points in just 37 minutes on the court. It marks his second consecutive 50-point game against the New Orleans Pelicans, leading the Suns to a 123-109 victory during Friday night’s NBA action, extending their winning streak to four games.
Booker’s motivation was clear as he acknowledged the presence of his family, including his father and grandfather, who were watching from the stands. His high school roots on the Mississippi coast added a personal touch to his performance in New Orleans.
“I got 50 folks out there, and I’m about to go see them,” Booker said. “That’s where my main motivation comes, from all my family that’s here. They drive over every time I play here, and I like to put on a show for them.”
Booker’s scoring prowess was on full display, with an impressive 18 of 30 from the field, including 6 of 11 on three-pointers, and a perfect record from the free-throw line. This feat marked the sixth time in his career he’s reached the 50-point mark, with a career-high of 70 points against Boston in 2017.
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Devin Booker, Phoenix Suns, New Orleans Pelicans Updates
Suns coach Frank Vogel praised Booker’s “incredible killer instinct” and his ability to share the ball when faced with double-teams.
“It was a great team win, but Book was spectacular,” Vogel said. “He was able to torch these guys, but when the double-teams came, he shared it.”
Kevin Durant contributed 26 points, and Jusuf Nurkic grabbed 15 rebounds for Phoenix. The Suns shot 49.5% overall and led by as much as 30 points in the second half.
The Pelicans, led by Zion Williamson with 24 points, struggled to keep pace with the Suns, particularly from the three-point line, where they missed 32 of 42 attempts. This was a stark contrast to their previous game where they set a franchise record for three-pointers.
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Devin Booker, Phoenix Suns, New Orleans Pelicans Updates
Pelicans coach Willie Green expressed concern about his team’s defensive efforts, particularly from the starters, noting that their ability to score must be matched with a commitment to guarding.
“They kind of knocked us on our heels early,” Green said. “Once they did, it was just hard for us to get back into a rhythm.”
“That’s where their biggest struggles are. We have talked about it and had honest discussions,” Green explained. “They can score, but we’ve got to guard.”
The game, held in a packed arena, was initially energized by Brandon Ingram’s opening score, but Booker quickly took control, scoring 25 points before the end of the first quarter with a variety of shots.
“When he starts off aggressive, looking to score, that just opens the floor up for everybody,” Durant said. “I expect this from him when we go out there — I’m not saying 50 points — but that aggressiveness, the shot-making.”
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Devin Booker, Phoenix Suns, New Orleans Pelicans Updates
The Pelicans managed to reduce a 23-point deficit to 17 by halftime, but Booker’s 20 points in the third quarter dashed hopes of a comeback. The Suns led 100-80 entering the final period.
Looking ahead, the Suns are set to host the Indiana Pacers on Sunday night, while the Pelicans will welcome the Utah Jazz on Tuesday night.
