Bradley Beal made history in the Phoenix Suns’ latest win over the Washington Wizards. Beal made an emphatic return to the city he represented for over a decade of his NBA career, dropping a season-high 43 points on 16/21 shooting in his first game back in D.C.
Beal’s incredible performance marked the most points scored in NBA history by a player in their first game against their former team.
After the contest, Beal spoke with Suns sideline reporter Amanda Pflugrad about the emotions of returning to the U.S. capital.
“My biggest thing is just missing them,” Beal said. “Missing the environment, missing the city. All the relationships I built with people, from the workers up top to the custodians down low. It’s been a thrill of 11 years of being here, and tonight was awesome.”
After starting the 2023-24 season sidelined with back issues, Beal has found a groove with his new team. In 26 games as a Sun, Beal has averaged 18.1 points and 4.6 assists. However, he has averaged 22.0 points and 7.0 assists on 48.5% shooting over his last four contests.
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Bradley Beal, Phoenix Suns, Washington Wizards Updates
Beal further reflected on the gratitude he feels for the city of Washington and the time he spent there before becoming a Sun.
“I was blessed,” Beal told Pflugard. “I was blessed to be in a great place for 11 years. Not many players have that opportunity, so I wanted to really just embrace that. It’s kind of tough right before a game, I try not to get emotional … I’m very grateful for it.”
Despite various injury struggles and adjustments to their new-look roster, the Suns have ground their way to a 29-21 record and a top-six seed in the Western Conference. With Beal, Kevin Durant, and Devin Booker all healthy heading into the All-Star break, the Suns could end up peaking at just the right time.
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Bradley Beal, Phoenix Suns, Washington Wizards Updates
Wizards fans may have witnessed a Sunday afternoon masterclass from their former poster child, but Beal has his sights set on greater heights. Armed with one of the most dangerous starting lineups in basketball, the Suns have one goal in mind: a first-ever NBA championship.
