The New Orleans Pelicans defeated the Phoenix Suns 81-75 in a Las Vegas Summer League matchup, securing the win through a dominant first half and a late-game surge. Alik Dia led the Pelicans with 18 points and eight rebounds, while Phoenix’s Khaman Maluach recorded a double-double with 15 points and 15 rebounds, according to official game statistics.
Pelicans Control Early Momentum and Paint
New Orleans established a lead early by prioritizing defensive pressure and interior scoring. The Pelicans closed the first quarter with a 16-12 advantage and extended that lead to 41-31 by halftime. A primary factor in the early lead was Phoenix’s struggle from beyond the arc, where the Suns missed their first 13 three-point attempts.
The Pelicans’ efficiency in the paint and transition proved decisive. According to the final box score, New Orleans outperformed Phoenix 40-26 in points in the paint and 15-8 on fast-break points. The Pelicans also converted 11 three-pointers on 34 attempts to maintain their spacing and offensive rhythm.
Suns Rally Led by Maluach and Brown II
Phoenix shifted the momentum in the second half, outscoring New Orleans 44-40. The Suns’ comeback effort was anchored by Darius Brown II, who scored 18 points on 7-of-12 shooting. Khaman Maluach provided a significant interior presence, contributing 15 points, 15 rebounds, and two blocks.
Additional scoring for Phoenix came from Koa Peat, who added 12 points and two steals, and Rasheer Fleming, who finished with 11 points. Despite the surge, the Suns were unable to take the lead, as New Orleans regained composure in the final minutes.
Key Performers and Statistical Breakdown
The Pelicans relied on a balanced attack from their bench and rotation players to seal the victory. Alik Dia’s impact extended beyond his 18 points, as he recorded eight rebounds, two steals, and two blocks in 23 minutes of play. Jaron Pierre Jr. contributed 16 points, and Kobe Bufkin added 15 points, finishing a perfect 4-for-4 from the free-throw line.
Markquis Nowell provided defensive energy, recording four steals to disrupt the Phoenix offense. The combined effort allowed New Orleans to withstand the Suns’ second-half run and maintain a six-point lead through the final buzzer.
| Player | Team | Points | Rebounds | Key Stat |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alik Dia | Pelicans | 18 | 8 | 2 Blocks, 2 Steals |
| Darius Brown II | Suns | 18 | – | 7/12 FG |
| Khaman Maluach | Suns | 15 | 15 | 2 Blocks |
| Jaron Pierre Jr. | Pelicans | 16 | – | – |
| Kobe Bufkin | Pelicans | 15 | – | 4/4 FT |
Upcoming Summer League Schedule
Both teams continue their Las Vegas Summer League campaigns with new opponents. The Phoenix Suns return to the court on Monday to face the Milwaukee Bucks. The New Orleans Pelicans are scheduled to play the Cleveland Cavaliers on Wednesday.
Worth a look