The New Orleans Pelicans snapped their losing streak of nine straight losses on Thursday night by defeating the Phoenix Suns by a tight 126-124 in the NBA. With a standout performance from Brandon Ingram, who scored 29 points in his return after a five-game absence, and a solid effort from CJ McCollum, who added 25 points, the Pelicans showed their fighting ability in a game filled with tension.
Despite late attempts by the Suns, led by Devin Booker and Bradley Beal, the Pelicans' defense and grit prevailed in the final seconds.
Ingram And Mccollum Lead The Pelicans
Brandon Ingram was the most outstanding player of the night, returning to the court after a long absence due to injury. His presence on the court was crucial for the team, especially in key moments of the game. Ingram not only scored 29 points, but also showed his leadership skills and ability to take control of the game in the most tense moments.
In the third quarter, with the Suns holding a slight lead, Ingram hit back-to-back three-pointers, including three in a 36-second span, which helped the Pelicans build a 99-93 lead at the end of the quarter. This 22-10 run by Ingram allowed the Pelicans to stay in the fight and eventually take control of the game.
On the other hand, CJ McCollum also played a key role in the victory. Despite missing a free throw with just three seconds on the clock, which allowed the Suns to have one last chance to tie or win, McCollum was solid throughout the game.
His ability to score at crucial moments, such as the three-pointer that helped increase the Pelicans' lead to 109-101, was vital in securing the victory. In addition, McCollum contributed a key assist for Trey Murphy's dunk, which ultimately sealed the game's fate.
Herb Jones' Last Defense
As the clock ticked down to the final seconds of the game, the Suns, led by Booker, still held out hope of stealing the victory. Booker, who scored 28 points, was incredibly active throughout the second half, but it wasn't enough to stem the Pelicans' wave of resiliency. As Phoenix closed to within a point, McCollum hit a three-pointer, and then a key three-pointer by Jones from the left corner extended New Orleans' lead to 121-117.
But the moment that made the difference in the final seconds was the outstanding defense of Herb Jones. After a McCollum free throw miss, the Suns had a chance to tie the game, but Jones, who hadn't played in 18 games due to a shoulder injury, blocked a Booker three-point attempt on the final play.
This action sealed the victory for the Pelicans, who not only broke their negative streak, but also demonstrated remarkable resilience under pressure.
PELS WIN#Pelicans | @HancockWhitney pic.twitter.com/RQXBhFfI6M
- New Orleans Pelicans (@PelicansNBA) December 6, 2024
Outstanding Individual Performances
In addition to Ingram and McCollum's points, the Pelicans had an outstanding collective performance that contributed to the win. Trey Murphy, with 19 points, showed his ability to score at key moments, while Dejounte Murray added 17 points and contributed to the offense. Rookie center Yves Missi also played an important role, grabbing 12 rebounds and providing a solid defensive presence in the paint.
For the Suns, Booker and Beal's performance was essential to keep Phoenix in the game. Although it was not enough to avoid defeat, Booker scored 28 points and Beal added 24, both showing why they are key pieces for the Phoenix team.
In addition, Royce O'Neale chipped in with 19 points, while Grayson Allen and Tyus Jones contributed 13 points each. However, the lack of response to the Pelicans' fierce defense in the final moments proved fatal for the Suns.
The New Orleans Pelicans' win over the Phoenix Suns not only marked the end of a painful nine-game losing streak, but also demonstrated this team's ability to hold up under pressure and close out games effectively. With strong performances from Ingram and McCollum, and vital defense from Herb Jones, the Pelicans proved that they can be a dangerous team when all of their key players are healthy.
The Suns, meanwhile, fought until the end, but were unable to complete their comeback, and the loss leaves them with the need to rethink their approach for the upcoming games. Meanwhile, the Pelicans prepare to face Oklahoma City in their next game, hoping to continue their winning ways.
