Luke Kennard scores 20 as Suns edge Spurs 102-98

Kennard leads Phoenix

Twenty points from Luke Kennard helped the Phoenix Suns defeat the San Antonio Spurs 102-98 on Saturday at Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix. Phoenix improved to 1-2, while San Antonio fell to 0-2.

Kennard supplied Phoenix with its top scoring performance. Jalen Green added five assists, and Khaman Maluach collected 15 rebounds for the Suns. Dylan Harper led the Spurs with 15 points, while Victor Wembanyama had six assists and Luke Kornet grabbed 10 rebounds.

Suns build early advantage

Phoenix established control in the opening quarter, outscoring San Antonio 35-25. The Suns extended their lead to 49-34 in the second quarter before the Spurs closed the gap. San Antonio scored the final 17 points of the half according to the quarter totals, but Phoenix still took a 58-51 lead into halftime.

The first half included a strong shooting stretch from Phoenix, with Kennard making multiple 3-point shots and Green contributing from the field. San Antonio received scoring from Harper and Wembanyama as it worked to stay within reach.

Spurs make a late push

Phoenix added to its advantage in the third quarter, winning the period 27-22. The Suns entered the fourth quarter ahead 85-73, leaving San Antonio with a 12-point deficit.

The Spurs responded in the final period, outscoring Phoenix 25-17. San Antonio cut into the margin with late scoring from its lineup, including a pair of 3-point baskets by Maliq Brown. Phoenix nevertheless maintained enough of its lead to finish with the four-point victory.

Records

The result moved the Suns to 1-2 after the game. The Spurs’ record became 0-2. Phoenix was the home team, and San Antonio was the visiting team.

Sources

ESPN