Phoenix Suns head coach Jordan Ott praised the team’s balanced performance in Wednesday’s 112-100 road victory against the Sacramento Kings, emphasizing early defensive intensity.
“Our defensive activity right off the bat… all five guys on the floor connected,” Ott said, noting the Suns’ 41-16 first-quarter surge.
Collin Gillespie earned his first start of the season, and Ott explained the decision was driven by matchups and team needs. “Just adding another person out there that can really help us with the ball-handling piece. And last but certainly not least, Collin deserves it. The way he’s been playing, it’s been fantastic,” Ott said. Gillespie responded with 21 points and nine assists.
Mark Williams dominated the paint, finishing with 21 points and 16 rebounds, including nine offensive boards. “He continues to set new standards for himself that we as a staff and as a team need to hold him accountable to,” Ott said, praising his rim protection and rebounding. “Those 10 offensive rebounds, those possessions are super important for us on nights that we don’t shoot the ball very well.”
The Suns maintained composure despite a Kings rally in the third quarter. Ott credited Jamaree Bouyea’s shooting for stabilizing the offense. “His play last night in the G League and just his overall demeanor is so stoic… we knew we could throw him in on the road and him not be phased,” Ott said. Bouyea went 3-of-4 from three-point range.
Ott highlighted the team’s approach to maintaining momentum without calling a timeout during Sacramento’s run. “We got to battle ourselves out of some of that. It’s us, those five guys really out there on the floor,” he said, stressing accountability and in-game adjustments.
The Suns’ first-quarter dominance set the tone. Ott added, “It was really important to set a tone… intent and aggressiveness early.” Devin Booker contributed 19 points despite shooting struggles, while Phoenix’s depth ensured sustained pressure.
Looking ahead, Ott acknowledged the upcoming matchup with the Oklahoma City Thunder as pivotal for the NBA Cup standings. “It highlights this… happens to be a team that is playing really well and defending champions. Every night when you lace them up, you got to go out there and play as hard as you possibly can,” he said.
Phoenix improved to 12-7 overall and 3-0 in NBA Cup play, while Sacramento remains 0-3 in the Cup. The Suns will travel to face Oklahoma City on Friday, continuing their pursuit of a West Group A lead.
