Phoenix Suns first-year head coach Jordan Ott praised his team’s resilience after Wednesday’s 123-114 victory over the Dallas Mavericks at American Airlines Center. The Suns overcame a tight finish to extend their winning streak to four games.
Ott acknowledged the close ending, saying, “Definitely got a little close. But it’s good… we collected our poise, executed down the stretch even there.” He emphasized the importance of maintaining composure under pressure.
The Suns’ bench played a pivotal role, with Jordan Goodwin scoring a season-high 13 points. “Entire bench… Goody was great there in the first half for sure when we needed some juice,” Ott said, noting that all 10 players who entered the game contributed at different times.
Devin Booker finished with 26 points and nine assists, finding success early in the paint. Ott attributed Dallas’ second-half adjustments for limiting drives, adding, “They were aggressive in the pick and roll… They’re a good defensive team… had bigs that can protect the rim.”
Ott also highlighted Mark Williams’ defensive impact, particularly in the final sequence. “That last possession… we were able to get a piece and then get the loose ball and rebound. Mark continues to stretch exactly what his standard is,” he said.
Phoenix scored 52 points in the paint and forced 21 turnovers, translating into 31 points. Ott stressed that taking care of the basketball while generating defensive opportunities is central to the Suns’ identity. “Forcing 21 turnovers… that’s always helpful not only to your defense, but also your offense,” he explained.
Despite Dallas cutting an 18-point second-half deficit to three, Ott credited his team’s adaptability. “The NBA is so hard to win. Every night’s a new challenge… tonight it was a little muddy, a little murky, a little dirty. And we survived,” he said.
The Suns improved to 7-5, winning six of their last seven games, while the Mavericks fell to 3-9, marking their worst 12-game start since 2017-18. Phoenix hosts the Indiana Pacers Thursday, and Dallas welcomes the Los Angeles Clippers Friday.
