RISE OF THE SUNS: PHOENIX ERUPTS WITH THRILLING 4TH QUARTER COMEBACK, DEFEATING DEFENDING CHAMPIONS IN THRILLING PLAYOFF OPENER!….

*RISE OF THE SUNS: PHOENIX ERUPTS WITH THRILLING 4TH QUARTER COMEBACK, DEFEATING DEFENDING CHAMPIONS IN THRILLING PLAYOFF OPENER!*

Phoenix, AZ – The Phoenix Suns pulled off an electrifying 4th quarter comeback, defeating the defending champion Los Angeles Lakers 120-115 in a thrilling playoff opener at the Footprint Center.

Trailing by 12 points with just over 8 minutes remaining, the Suns embarked on a stunning 22-5 run, fueled by Devin Booker’s scorching 3-point shooting and Deandre Ayton’s dominant rebounding. The Lakers, led by LeBron James’ 34 points, were unable to contain the Suns’ explosive offense down the stretch.

*BOOKER’S CLUTCH PERFORMANCE:*

Booker scored 15 of his game-high 38 points in the 4th quarter, including 5 crucial 3-pointers. His clutch shooting and playmaking abilities proved to be the difference-maker in the Suns’ come-from-behind victory.

*AYTON’S DOUBLE-DOUBLE:*

Ayton notched a dominant double-double, scoring 23 points and grabbing 16 rebounds. His physical presence in the paint and ability to finish at the rim were key factors in the Suns’ triumph.

*SUNS’ COACH MONTY WILLIAMS:*

“We believed in ourselves, even when it seemed like all hope was lost,” said Suns’ coach Monty Williams. “Our guys showed tremendous heart and resilience, and we’re thrilled to get this win.”

*GAME 2 PREVIEW:*

The Suns will look to take a 2-0 series lead when they host the Lakers in Game 2 on Tuesday night.

*BOX SCORE:*

Phoenix Suns (120)

– Devin Booker: 38 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists
– Deandre Ayton: 23 points, 16 rebounds, 2 blocks
– Mikal Bridges: 17 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists

Los Angeles Lakers (115)

– LeBron James: 34 points, 8 rebounds, 7 assists
– Anthony Davis: 26 points, 10 rebounds, 2 blocks
– Dennis Schröder: 20 points, 4 rebounds, 5 assists