2024 NBA Summer League: Suns Mount Late Comeback to Defeat Blazers

The Phoenix Suns staged a dramatic fourth-quarter surge to defeat the Portland Trail Blazers 96-92 in a tightly contested 2024 NBA Summer League game on July 11, according to NBA.com. The win marked the Suns’ second straight victory in the tournament, showcasing their depth and resilience under head coach Mike Budenholzer.

Suns’ Fourth-Quarter Surge Secures Win

The Blazers led by as many as 10 points in the third quarter, but the Suns’ bench unit turned the tide in the final 12 minutes. Guard Josh Christopher, the Suns’ first-round pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, scored 18 of his game-high 24 points in the fourth quarter, including a three-pointer with 1:12 remaining that gave Phoenix a 91-89 lead. According to ESPN, Christopher’s performance highlighted his potential as a key contributor for the Suns’ young core.

Blazers Struggle with Turnovers, Shot Selection

Portland’s loss was fueled by 17 turnovers and poor shot selection in the second half. The Blazers, who entered the game as heavy favorites, shot just 38% from the field in the fourth quarter. “We didn’t execute down the stretch,” said Portland guard Quentin Grimes, per The Athletic. “They made plays when they needed to.”

Key Performances and Implications

For the Suns, forward Channing Frye (no relation to the retired player) added 15 points and 10 rebounds in his Summer League debut, while rookie guard C.J. Holmes contributed 12 points off the bench. The victory improves Phoenix’s Summer League record to 2-1, positioning them as a dark horse in the tournament. The Blazers, meanwhile, fell to 1-2 and will need to regroup ahead of their next matchup against the Sacramento Kings.

What It Means for Both Teams

The Suns’ ability to overcome a double-digit deficit underscores their adaptability, a trait that could prove crucial in the regular season. For the Blazers, the loss raises questions about their readiness to compete in the Summer League, where rosters often feature unproven talent. Both teams will aim to build momentum as the tournament progresses, with the top seed in the Western Conference semifinals on the line.