In a game marked by intensity and a brief scuffle, Devin Booker shone with 35 points, while Kevin Durant contributed 24, leading the Phoenix Suns to a 110-105 win over the Houston Rockets during Thursday’s NBA action
The altercation between Booker and Rockets rookie Cam Whitmore resulted in technical fouls for both. Still, it was Jusuf Nurkic who stood out in the aftermath with crucial blocks that energized the Phoenix crowd.
“Very important – that’s the team sticking together,” Booker said. “That goes a long way. That’s what you need when things get tough, it gets to the thick of things and the energy is high. You want to know you have people on your team that are built like that.”
Booker’s explosive start, scoring 20 points in the first quarter, helped the Suns establish an 18-point lead. His performance underscored his season’s excellence, marking at least 20 points in six quarters, the highest in the NBA this season.
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Devin Booker, Kevin Durant, Phoenix Suns, Houston Rockets Updates
The Suns maintained their lead throughout despite the Rockets narrowing the gap in the fourth quarter. Booker’s timely three-pointer following the skirmish with Whitmore and subsequent technicals called on Houston’s Alperen Sengun, who was ejected, helped Phoenix maintain their advantage.
Jalen Green‘s 34 points led the Rockets, with Fred VanVleet adding 21. However, Houston’s shooting woes, making just 11 of 45 three-pointers, contributed to their lowest field goal percentage of the season.
“It wasn’t one of our better nights as far as guys getting open looks and making the extra pass,” Rockets coach Ime Udoka said. “We had a few guys who had it going, but a few guys who were struggling.”
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Devin Booker, Kevin Durant, Phoenix Suns, Houston Rockets Updates
Phoenix’s victory is part of a larger trend of success, winning seven of their last ten games and extending a nine-game home winning streak, as they aim to secure a top-six finish in the Western Conference and avoid the play-in tournament. Meanwhile, the Rockets face challenges, losing in eight of their last ten games.
“We’re getting confident in this building,” Suns coach Frank Vogel said.
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Devin Booker, Kevin Durant, Phoenix Suns, Houston Rockets Updates
The Suns and Rockets are scheduled for a quick rematch, promising another competitive showdown as Phoenix seeks to continue their momentum and Houston looks to rebound.
