Suns Move Forward in NBA Cup Despite Narrow Loss to Thunder

Suns Advance in NBA Cup Despite Close Loss to Thunder

The Phoenix Suns moved on to the quarterfinals of the NBA Emirates Cup on Tuesday night, even though they fell to the Oklahoma City Thunder 123–119 in a tightly contested matchup.

Game Overview

Oklahoma City held a slight edge throughout the game, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who scored 35 points and helped keep the Thunder ahead in crucial moments. The Suns mounted several comeback attempts, with Kevin Durant adding 28 points and Devin Booker contributing 25, but they ultimately fell short in the final minute.

Tournament Implications

Despite the loss, Phoenix advanced thanks to point differential tiebreakers within their group. Their earlier strong performances secured the necessary margin for advancement, keeping them alive in the race for the NBA Cup title.

Player Highlights

“We played hard, competed all night, and now it’s about carrying that energy into the next round,” Durant said after the game.

Team Outlook

The Suns will face their next opponent in the knockout stage with renewed confidence, aiming to refine their defense and improve late-game execution as the NBA Cup heats up.

Author’s summary: The Suns overcame a narrow loss to the Thunder by advancing in the NBA Cup through point differential, with star efforts from Durant and Booker leading their run.

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Yardbarker on MSN Yardbarker on MSN — 2025-11-29

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