Collin Gillespie Sets Suns 3-Point Record in Loss to Hornets

The Phoenix Suns endured a difficult 127–107 loss to the Charlotte Hornets on Thursday night, but the game still featured a significant individual milestone. Guard Collin Gillespie etched his name into franchise history with a record-breaking performance from beyond the arc.

Gillespie surpassed a long-standing mark during the second quarter, knocking down his 227th three-pointer of the season. The shot moved him past former Suns standout Quentin Richardson, who had held the record since the 2004–05 campaign.

While the achievement provided a bright moment for Phoenix, it came during a game that quickly slipped out of their control. After a strong start, the Suns were unable to maintain their momentum as Charlotte took over in the middle quarters.

The result underscored the team’s recent struggles, even as Gillespie’s breakout season continued to offer signs of progress and promise for the future.

1. Record-Breaking Efficiency From Gillespie

Gillespie’s milestone performance highlighted not only his scoring ability but also his efficiency. Reaching 227 made three-pointers in just 76 games, he accomplished the feat with significantly fewer attempts than Richardson needed to set the previous record. His shooting has been a defining feature of his season. Averaging 13 points, 4.8 assists, 4.1 rebounds, and 1.3 steals per game, Gillespie has delivered across multiple facets while maintaining strong percentages from both the field and beyond the arc. The accomplishment also places him among elite company in Suns history. He became just the fifth player in franchise history to reach the 200 three-pointer mark in a single season, joining names such as Raja Bell, Gerald Green, and Grayson Allen. For Gillespie, the record reflects a season of growth. Having set career highs in multiple categories, he has emerged as a key contributor in Phoenix’s rotation.

2. Hornets Take Control After Early Suns Lead

Despite Gillespie’s milestone, the Suns were unable to capitalize on their early success. Phoenix opened the game with energy, building a 41–33 lead at the end of the first quarter behind efficient shooting and offensive rhythm. However, momentum shifted quickly in the second quarter, as Charlotte outscored Phoenix 33–19 to seize control. The Hornets continued to build on that advantage in the third, extending their lead with consistent scoring and defensive pressure. Charlotte’s balanced attack proved difficult to contain. Miles Bridges led the way with 25 points, while rookie standout Kon Knueppel added 20 and Coby White contributed 19. Playmaking also played a crucial role, with LaMelo Ball orchestrating the offense and finishing with 15 points and 11 assists. The Hornets’ efficiency and teamwork ultimately overwhelmed the Suns.

3. Defensive Struggles Continue for Phoenix

The loss highlighted ongoing defensive concerns for Phoenix. After ranking among the league’s better defensive teams earlier in the season, the Suns have struggled on that end in recent months. Charlotte shot 52 percent from the field and connected on 18 three-pointers, exploiting gaps in Phoenix’s defense. The Hornets also dominated the glass, outrebounding the Suns 47–31 and generating second-chance opportunities. Turnovers compounded the issue. Phoenix committed 12 miscues, which led to 17 points for Charlotte, further widening the gap as the game progressed. Now holding a 42–35 record, the Suns have dropped six of their last seven road games and sit seventh in the Western Conference. With a matchup against the Chicago Bulls looming, the team faces increasing pressure to stabilize before the postseason.