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Suns vs. 76ers: Michael Beasley draws 'hometown' crowd, Suns snap skid

The Suns used a little help from some Kansas State fans, some stellar play from Luis Scola and solid defense on 76ers' guard Jrue Holliday to snap a six-game losing streak on Wednesday night.

USA TODAY Sports

Michael Beasley and the Phoenix Suns got a boost from some unexpected "hometown" fans and downed the Philadelphia 76ers, 95-89, and ended a six-game losing streak on Wednesday night at US Airways Center.

According to Kris Habbas of SB Nation's Suns blog, Bright Side of the Sun, a slew of Kansas State fans descended upon the arena last night to supports the Suns and Beasley, a former Wildcat.

" ... throughout the game there were thundering cheers for Beasley, and, ultimately, Gentry caved in the second quarter inserting Beasley to -- I kid you not, a standing ovation. Surreal chain of events on a Wednesday night."

While the boost from Wildcats fans was probably helpful, it was the stellar play of Suns forward Luis Scola in the third quarter that really helped Phoenix put an end to a six-game losing streak. Scola knocked down a few key jumpers on his way to a team-high 21 points, and added nine assists for good measure.

Habbas posits that it might have been the Suns' ability to take 76ers' point guard Jrue Holliday out of the game that keyed the victory.

"Containing Holiday was not only the key to the game, but imperative in terms of staying in this game based on his outburst last time the two teams met. Once [Goran] Dragic did that, Holiday went four-straight possessions of one-on-one basketball, missed every shot and allowed the Suns to stretch the lead."

Dragic added 20 points and six assists, while Marcin Gortat had 11 points and grabbed 14 rebounds in the win.