Collin Gillespie Shines, Fuels Suns’ Comeback Victory

The Phoenix Suns showcased resilience in their recent game against the Portland Trail Blazers, overcoming a significant early deficit to secure a 130-125 victory. Collin Gillespie played a pivotal role, scoring a career-best 30 points, including eight three-pointers, and providing 10 assists. His performance helped fuel the Suns’ offensive resurgence, particularly from beyond the arc, where they shot 49% (20-for-41).

Game Overview and Key Moments

The Suns faced a challenging start, falling behind by 19 points in the first quarter. Initially, the Blazers capitalized on the absence of key Suns players, specifically Devin Booker and Jalen Green. Portland, missing their All-Star Deni Avdija, began explosively, scoring 41 points in the first quarter with a focus on inside scoring and drawing fouls.

Quarter Breakdown

• First Quarter:
  • Blazers scored 41 points, including six three-pointers.
  • Donovan Clingan hit a career-high three three-pointers.
  • Suns closed with a 13-5 run, trailing by 11 at the end.
• Second Quarter:
  • Suns outscored Blazers 37-30.
  • Jordan Goodwin was instrumental, contributing pivotal energy to the offense.
• Third Quarter:
  • Suns hit eight three-pointers to dramatically shift the momentum.
  • Gillespie and Grayson Allen led the charge, scoring from beyond the arc.
• Fourth Quarter:
  • Suns extended their lead to 12 points with critical shots by Ryan Dunn.
  • Allen sealed the game with a key step-back three-pointer.

Player Highlights

Several players had standout performances in this thrilling matchup:

• Collin Gillespie: 30 points, 10 assists, 8 rebounds, 10-for-17 shooting.
• Grayson Allen: 24 points, including crucial three-pointers.
• Jordan Goodwin: 16 points, 10 rebounds, 5 steals—first Phoenix reserve to achieve this since 1991.
• Mark Williams: 24 points, 12 rebounds, showing improvement after a rocky start.

Despite a strong start from the Blazers, the Suns’ ability to adapt and respond under pressure was evident. They overcame a notable disadvantage in second-chance points, where Portland outscored them 39-23. This victory highlighted the Suns’ depth and resilience, particularly in the absence of their star players.

Next, the Phoenix Suns look to build on this momentum as they prepare for their upcoming games, aiming to solidify their standing in the league.