Collin Sexton delivered a season-high 30 points as the Chicago Bulls edged the Phoenix Suns 105-103 on Thursday night in Phoenix. The victory marks Chicago’s second win in three games following an 11-game losing streak, with Sexton’s performance standing out after being acquired in a trade from the Charlotte Hornets earlier this month.
Late-Game Drama Sees Suns Nearly Complete Comeback
The Suns clawed back from a 12-point deficit with fewer than six minutes remaining, fueled by Devin Booker’s critical 3-pointer that trimmed the Bulls’ lead to 104-103 with 23 seconds left. Jalen Green had an opportunity to put Phoenix ahead on a driving layup but missed, leading to a decisive foul by Amir Coffey on Bulls’ Nick Richards with just over four seconds to play. Richards converted one of two free throws, and the ensuing rebound scramble consumed the remaining time.
Supporting Contributions from Bulls’ Role Players
Alongside Sexton’s standout night, Tre Jones contributed 21 points, while Guerschon Yabusele added 16 in the Bulls’ season opener of a five-game road trip. Sexton, who had previously reached a season best of 22 points three times with Charlotte, shot 11-of-19 to set his personal scoring record for this season. Despite missing Matas Buzelis and Josh Giddey due to ankle injuries sustained in a recent game against the Oklahoma City Thunder, the Bulls displayed resilience.
Suns Face Challenges Amid Injuries and Slumps
Devin Booker led Phoenix with 27 points in only his second game back after a four-game absence due to a right hip injury. Grayson Allen added 21 points off the bench, but Green struggled offensively, scoring 12 points on 5-of-20 shooting and going 1-for-8 from beyond the arc. The Suns, positioned seventh in the Western Conference, had just snapped a two-game losing streak but continue to manage without Dillon Brooks, who is sidelined with a fractured left hand.
Upcoming Matchups for Both Teams
The Bulls will continue their road trip with a game against the Sacramento Kings on Saturday night, while the Suns return home to face the New Orleans Pelicans on Friday. Both teams aim to build momentum as they navigate key absences and seek to improve their standings in their respective conferences.
