The Phoenix Suns began the second half trailing the Sacramento Kings, but some strong team defense and solid offensive execution down the stretch led to a 96-88 win. The Suns are now 17-20 on the season, including a 10-9 mark at US Airways Center, while the Kings fell to 12-25. Phoenix has now won three in a row and four of their last five, with their lone loss coming by two points against the Warriors.
Trailing by five at half, the Suns outscored the Kings 50-36 in the second half.
Steve Nash led the way with 19 points and seven assists, and was crucial in halting a late run from the Kings in the closing minutes. With just a few seconds left on the shot clock, Nash used a screen and hit a fadeaway 3-pointer to put the Suns up by six. Marcin Gortat had a huge night with 14 points and 17 rebounds against a talented Kings frontline. Shannon Brown had 13 big points off the bench, most of which came in the fourth quarter, including back-to-back hits from behind the arc.
Marcus Thornton led all scorers with 21 points on 23 shots. Rookie point guard Isaiah Thomas struggled throughout the evening and had just eight points on 3-for-13 shooting. DeMarcus Cousins recored a double-double with 16 points and 14 rebounds.
The Suns will now have a few days of rest before traveling to Oklahoma City to face Kevin Durant and the Thunder on Wednesday evening. Tipoff is set for 6 p.m. Arizona time.