Devin Booker’s performance in Monday night’s game against the New Orleans Pelicans was nothing short of spectacular. With over 40 friends and family members in attendance from his hometown of Moss Point, Mississippi, Booker put on a show, scoring 52 points and leading the Phoenix Suns to a 124-111 victory. This marked the third consecutive game in which Booker scored over 50 points against the Pelicans, a feat only achieved by the legendary Wilt Chamberlain in NBA history.
Booker’s 52-point performance on Monday was not his first against the Pelicans. In fact, he had scored 52 points in their previous matchup on January 19th, and 58 points in a game back in December 2022. This incredible streak of 162 points in three games against the same opponent is unmatched in the past 50 seasons of NBA history. Booker humbly attributed his success to playing the same way and being close to home, with the Smoothie King Center holding a special place in his heart as the first NBA arena he ever visited.
Booker’s hot start in the game, scoring 24 points in the first quarter and 37 by halftime, set the tone for the Suns as they built a commanding lead. Despite the Pelicans attempting a comeback in the fourth quarter, led by Zion Williamson’s 30 points, Phoenix managed to hold on for the win. Suns forward Kevin Durant, who witnessed Booker’s previous 52-point game in January, expressed his amazement at Booker’s scoring ability, noting how effortlessly he scored in the flow of the game.
Suns coach Frank Vogel praised Booker’s aggressive mindset and versatility on offense, highlighting his ability to score from beyond the arc, attack the rim, and draw fouls. Booker’s performance not only propelled the Suns to victory but also brought them within one game of the Pelicans in the standings, as both teams vie to avoid the play-in tournament. The win also gave Phoenix the tiebreaker in the season series, setting the stage for a pivotal rematch in Phoenix on Sunday.
As the Suns look ahead to a challenging schedule, Vogel emphasized the importance of consistency and building on Monday’s win. With matchups against tough opponents like the Cavaliers, Timberwolves, and Clippers looming, Phoenix will need to capitalize on their recent success to secure a playoff spot. Booker’s stellar play and leadership will be crucial down the stretch, as the Suns aim to make a deep postseason run.
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