Boston Celtics experience a rare double-digit defeat on their home court, courtesy of the Phoenix Suns
In a closely contested matchup, the Phoenix Suns emerged victorious against the Boston Celtics, with a final score of 106-94. The game, played on Friday night, February 3 (Saturday, February 4, Manila time), saw the Suns overcoming an early deficit and capitalising on a strong second quarter to secure the win.
The Suns began the fourth quarter with a 14-2 run, and at one point in the second quarter, they led by 20 points following Chris Paul's three-pointer with 3:55 remaining. However, the Celtics managed to mount a comeback in the third quarter, outscoring the Suns, 29-17, to reduce the deficit.
Despite the Celtics' valiant effort, the Suns held on, with Mikal Bridges leading the team with 25 points. Deandre Ayton contributed a double-double, scoring 14 points and grabbing 10 rebounds, while Chris Paul chipped in with 15 points, 8 assists, and 6 rebounds. Dario Saric also had a standout performance, scoring 14 points and grabing a game-high 13 rebounds.
The Suns started the game trailing but took a 24-20 lead after one quarter, thanks in part to Deandre Ayton's opening layup with 7:35 left in the first. The Celtics' home record now stands at 20-8, marking the first time they have lost a home game by double digits this season.
The Suns' success came despite being without key players Devin Booker, Cameron Johnson, Cameron Payne, and Landry Shamet due to injuries. As of mid-July 2025, no updated injury information has been reported for these players. Landry Shamet, who was traded away from the Suns in 2023, is no longer on the team's roster.
For the Celtics, Jaylen Brown led all scorers with 27 points and 8 rebounds, while Jayson Tatum managed 20 points despite a poor shooting night, hitting just 3-of-15 from the floor. Derrick White added 19 points to the Celtics' total. Boston struggled from three-point range, making only 10 out of 38 attempts (26.3%).
This exciting victory for the Phoenix Suns marks a significant step forward in their season, demonstrating their resilience and teamwork even in the absence of key players. The Suns will look to build on this win as they continue their journey in the NBA.
The Phoenix Suns' basketball success extended beyond their initial struggle, as they capitalized on strong performances from Mikal Bridges, Deandre Ayton, Chris Paul, and Dario Saric to secure an NBA win against the Boston Celtics. Despite missing key players like Devin Booker, Cameron Johnson, Cameron Payne, and Landry Shamet, the Suns demonstrated their resilience and teamwork, triumphing in the NBA.
