Knicks’ Jalen Brunson achieves career-best 50 points, nails all 9 triples in 139-122 victory over Suns

In Phoenix, Jalen Brunson’s eighth 3-point attempt took an unusual path, hitting the rim’s side before a friendly bounce. Scorching the court, he scored a career-high 50 points, going 9 for 9 from beyond the arc.

Julius Randle contributed 23 as the New York Knicks triumphed 139-122 against the Phoenix Suns. Brunson’s phenomenal shooting included a perfect 12 for 12 in the second half, securing his place in history as the first Knicks player to score 50 points with nine 3s. Post-game, Brunson admitted to being unaware of his impeccable long-range performance, playing with a sense of freedom.

Phoenix faced a setback losing Bradley Beal to an ankle injury in the first quarter, ultimately dropping six of the last eight games. Meanwhile, New York secured a 139-122 victory, winning two of three. Despite leading by 10 in the third quarter, the Suns couldn’t maintain their advantage, allowing Jalen Brunson’s stellar shooting to keep the Knicks close. Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau praised Brunson’s exceptional shooting performance.

In the end, the Knicks utilized a 13-4 run in the fourth quarter, securing the lead and pulling away. Kevin Durant led the Suns with 29 points, while Brunson and Julius Randle propelled the Knicks to victory.

After a few agonizing minutes on the ground, 30-year-old guard Bradley Beal, dealing with a sprained ankle, managed to make his free throw before heading to the locker room. This setback compounds Beal’s challenges, having already missed most of the season due to a sore back.

It also leaves the Suns potentially without an All-Star trio member for an extended period, as Durant, Booker, and Beal have played just one game together this season. Coach Frank Vogel expressed disappointment for Beal, emphasizing the frustrating nature of his injury-plagued season.

The evening concluded with Shawn Marion’s induction into the Suns’ Ring of Honor, recognizing his stellar contributions during his tenure with the team. Marion, a four-time All-Star, played a pivotal role in the Suns’ success, reaching the Western Conference Finals in 2005 and 2006 alongside Amare Stoudemire and Steve Nash, with impressive averages of 18.4 points and 10 rebounds.