Booker Sees Thunder Clash as Key Benchmark as Suns Eye NBA Cup Rematch

The Phoenix Suns entered Friday’s NBA Cup matchup eager for a chance to test themselves against the league-leading Oklahoma City Thunder. With the Thunder sitting at an imposing 19–1, the Suns viewed the showdown as more than just a tournament game—it was an opportunity to gauge their progress against the NBA’s current standard.

Phoenix nearly delivered a statement performance, rallying late to pull within one point at 115–114 before Oklahoma City closed the fourth quarter on an 8–5 run. The Suns ultimately fell 123–119 but pushed the defending champions deeper into crunch time than most opponents have managed this season.

Afterward, Devin Booker reflected on the significance of the effort, highlighting the team’s competitiveness throughout a game that was as physical and intense as anticipated. Despite the loss, the Suns left Oklahoma City encouraged by their performance and eager for another opportunity.

That chance will come quickly, with Phoenix returning to Paycom Center next week for an NBA Cup quarterfinal rematch as both teams continue navigating a loaded Western Conference slate.

1. Booker Praises Suns’ Fight in Narrow Loss

Following the defeat, Booker stressed how important it was for Phoenix to go toe-to-toe with the NBA’s hottest team. He noted that the Suns knew the matchup would be scrappy and physical from start to finish—and felt they responded with the competitiveness needed to keep pace. Booker emphasized that the team still has areas to refine but called the game an instructive step as Phoenix continues shaping its identity. He also pointed to the possibility of getting key players back for the rematch, which he believes could further elevate their performance. The All-Star guard appreciated the challenge of facing Oklahoma City multiple times throughout the season, noting that the repeated matchups will give Phoenix a clear sense of how much they improve over time. With as many as five meetings on the schedule, Booker sees value in the ongoing tests the Thunder present. On Friday, Booker finished with 21 points on 5-of-13 shooting, adding eight rebounds, six assists, and strong defensive contributions to lead the Suns’ effort.

2. Supporting Cast Steps Up Despite the Loss

While Booker set the tone, several Suns role players delivered notable performances to keep Phoenix in contention. Collin Gillespie led the Suns with 24 points, knocking down six threes and providing crucial perimeter scoring as Phoenix battled to stay within striking distance. Dillon Brooks added 19 points and two steals, bringing energy and physicality on both ends of the floor. His shot creation and pressure defense helped Phoenix weather Oklahoma City’s runs throughout the night. These contributions were vital given the Suns’ ongoing health issues, which have forced the team to rely heavily on its depth during stretches of the season. With several rotation players still working toward a return, performances like those from Gillespie and Brooks have sustained Phoenix’s competitiveness. Phoenix will aim to build on those efforts as they prepare to host the Denver Nuggets on Saturday, seeking to regain momentum before their upcoming showdown with Oklahoma City.

3. Suns’ Strong Start Counters Rebuild Expectations

Friday’s matchup carried broader significance for a Suns team that entered the season with uncertain expectations. After trading Kevin Durant to the Houston Rockets, many projected Phoenix to pivot toward a rebuild. Instead, the Suns have opened the year 12–8, sitting sixth in the Western Conference. Booker views the early results—and their strong showing against the Thunder—as evidence of the team’s growth and resilience. He emphasized that Phoenix welcomes this level of competition, seeing it as essential to defining who they can become over the long season. Ahead of Friday’s game, Booker called Oklahoma City one of the best teams he has ever seen and expressed excitement about measuring the Suns against such a high-performing opponent. That perspective underscores how seriously Phoenix is taking the NBA Cup and the opportunities it presents. The Suns will get that next opportunity on December 10, when they travel back to Oklahoma City for the tournament quarterfinals in what promises to be another high-intensity matchup.