CLEVELAND – Phoenix’s halftime deficit against Cleveland tells two stories at once. The first quarter didn’t look like the Suns recently, in the worst way. Stagnant offense, late-clock shots, and a defense chasing instead of dictating had the Suns trailing by a lot early on. The second quarter, though, showed why this team still commands national respect with urgency, connectivity, and purpose.
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Mar 21, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns center Oso Ighodaro (4) dunks over Cleveland Cavaliers guard Darius Garland (10) as Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant (35) screams during the second half at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images
In the opening quarter, Phoenix’s offensive efficiency dipped well below its season baseline, driven by low assist rates and a heavy diet of contested jumpers. Cleveland capitalized, scoring early before the Suns’ defense was set. But in the second quarter, Phoenix cut the possession gap, increased paint touches, and held the Cavs to a significantly lower field-goal percentage. Ball movement improved, turnovers dropped, and the Suns started winning the math. Devin Booker and Collin Gillespie went 1-for-10 in the first quarter.
Mar 21, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker (1) shoots over Cleveland Cavaliers guard Sam Merrill (5) during the second half at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images
This isn’t just about shots falling. It’s psychological. First quarters have become a feel-out period for Phoenix, and against disciplined teams, that hesitation is costly. The second-quarter surge showed emotional resilience with veterans calming the game, role players sprinting into space, and a collective decision to defend first.
Dec 29, 2025; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Collin Gillespie (12) cleans water off the ball during a time out against the Washington Wizards during the third quarter at Capital One Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rafael Suanes-Imagn Images
For Phoenix fans, the takeaway is both encouraging and cautionary. The Suns can flip a game quickly; their ceiling is real. But relying on comebacks narrows the path to winning, especially in environments where early runs can become detrimental.
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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
