In a dramatic double overtime game on Sunday in Phoenix, Jalen Green delivered a crucial game-winning shot that lifted the Phoenix Suns to a 113-110 victory over the Orlando Magic. Despite a difficult shooting night, Green’s fadeaway three-pointer from the corner in the final moments secured the win, highlighting the importance of his presence on the court.
Though Green made only 6 of 26 attempts throughout the game, his teammates and coaches maintained confidence in him, encouraging him to keep shooting until the final buzzer. His decisive basket transformed what might have been a frustrating night into a triumphant moment for the Suns and their fans.
Overcoming Challenges to Take the Final Shot
When asked after the game about taking the game-deciding shot amid a tough scoring night, Green kept a lighthearted tone:
“At that point, it’s double OT, we just trying to go home,”
he said.
“But as I said, my teammates, my coaches kept talking to me the whole night. Just keep shooting. It doesn’t matter what the last shot is.”
The play was originally designed for Collin Gillespie, but Green instructed teammate Royce O’Neale to find him if space opened up, which it did. Despite visible frustration from missed opportunities, Green stuck to his typical shot selection and remained confident.
Stepping Up Amid Key Absences
With key Suns players Devin Booker, Dillon Brooks, and Jordan Goodwin sidelined on Saturday, Green knew that someone had to take a leading role. Early in the game, he focused on outside shots, but as the contest wore on, he increased his presence near the basket, creating opportunities for himself and his teammates.
While some fans questioned his shooting, Green’s ability to consistently find his spots and attempt his usual shots demonstrates what sets him apart as a scorer.
Coach Jordan Ott’s Confidence in Green’s Abilities
Head coach Jordan Ott praised Green’s resilience and shot-making skills despite recent disruptions.
“I think it’s pretty normal when you miss so many games, you’re not able to practice, not able to get much of a rhythm,”
Ott said.
“But what is hard is to go through that and then hit a shot like that. He’s an incredible shot maker, incredible scorer. That’s what those guys do.”
Ott’s remarks emphasized the trust the coaching staff places in Green, especially as the team navigates injury challenges and dense scheduling.
Future Outlook After a Defining Moment
Green’s impact was especially valuable on this day with the Suns engaged in back-to-back games. While his playing time in upcoming matches may be reduced, or he might sit out some games, this breakthrough game-winner will likely boost his confidence and standing within the team.
His first career NBA game-winning shot serves not only as a personal milestone but also reinforces his role as a key contributor amid the team’s shifting lineup.
Jalen Green had jokes when I asked him how he doesn’t overthink taking the last shot given the rough shooting night.
“At that point, it’s double OT, we just trying to go home.”
Continued: “But like I said, my teammates, my coaches kept talking to me the whole night. Just keep… pic.twitter.com/Lxw0JF4Qs4
— Hayden Cilley (@HaydenCilley) February 22, 2026
Jordan Ott said to @Amanda_Pflugrad that he still had all the trust in Jalen Green after tonight’s performance.
“I think it’s pretty normal when you miss so many games. You’re not able to practice, not able to get much of a rhythm… but what is hard is to go through that and… pic.twitter.com/p1rUPFRA7v
— Hayden Cilley (@HaydenCilley) February 22, 2026
