WASHINGTON – The Phoenix Suns’ win over Washington won’t live forever on highlight reels, but it deserves a deeper dive than the final score suggests. This was a game about control with emotional, tactical, and psychological moments, and Phoenix never let go of the wheel.
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Dec 29, 2025; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker (1) attempts to drive past Washington Wizards guard Tre Johnson (12) during the first quarter at Capital One Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rafael Suanes-Imagn Images
Devin Booker made that clear to help lead Phoenix. When the Wizards tried rotating younger defenders onto him, Booker didn’t rush. He waited, hunted angles, forced switches, and turned hesitation into points. It wasn’t loud dominance; it was surgical. Booker generates efficient scoring possessions primarily from mid-range and late-clock situations, where defensive mistakes matter most.
Dec 29, 2025; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Collin Gillespie (12) reacts after scoring a basket against the Washington Wizards during the second quarter at Capital One Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rafael Suanes-Imagn Images
Collin Gillespie shot confidently and kept the game competitive early, although one hot hand doesn’t outweigh five steady contributors. As the game wore on, Phoenix’s depth showed. Devin Booker, Royce O’Neale, Jordan Goodwin, and Collin Gillespie all reached double figures, spreading responsibility and stress across the floor.
Dec 29, 2025; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Dillon Brooks (3) attempts a jump shot in front of Washington Wizards forward Marvin Bagley III (35) during the first quarter at Capital One Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rafael Suanes-Imagn Images
That balance is the real takeaway. When the Suns move the ball, trust role players, and defend with intent, they don’t need perfection, they need patience. Tonight’s victory over the Wizards game reinforced a deeper truth for Suns fans, as top-tier level teams are building through total team efforts.
Collin Gillespie shooting lights out as Phoenix Suns barely lead Wizards at half
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Reporter Benjamin Bliklen covers the Arizona Diamondbacks, Arizona Cardinals, and Phoenix Suns for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @BenBliklen
