MEMPHIS – In a 19-point win that felt decided well before the final buzzer, the Phoenix Suns delivered a masterclass in game planning, patience, and emotional control. Against a Grizzlies roster ravaged by injuries, Phoenix avoided the trap of playing down to competition. Instead, they leaned into structure, spacing, and matchup hunting, building a lead that ballooned and never meaningfully shrank.
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Jan 7, 2026; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Royce O’Neale (00), guard Grayson Allen (8), forward Dillon Brooks (3) and head coach Jordan Ott look onduring the second quarter against the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images
Phoenix didn’t just beat Memphis; they dismantled them. Phoenix consistently forced Memphis into half-court possessions, where the Grizzlies lacked the personnel to generate efficient offense. The Suns punished that reality by attacking early mismatches and swinging the ball until the defense cracked. The numbers tell the story of steady scoring across quarters, minimal wasted possessions, and a calm refusal to let Memphis’ effort turn into momentum.
Jan 7, 2026; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Dillon Brooks (3) reacts during the third quarter against the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images
The emotional layer came from two familiar faces. Dillon Brooks, once the heartbeat of Memphis’ edge, poured in 21 points with visible intent. Another former member of the Grizzlies, Grayson Allen, added 19 points by spacing the floor and punishing defensive lapses. It wasn’t revenge, it was professionalism. Both players embodied the Suns’ broader identity of doing their job, exploiting what’s given, and focusing on getting the win.
Jan 7, 2026; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Memphis Grizzlies forward Jaylen Wells (0) shoots as Phoenix Suns guard Grayson Allen (8) defends during the third quarter at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images
For Suns fans, this game matters beyond the standings. It showed Phoenix can win without chaos, without relying on heroics, and without emotional swings. If the Suns can keep dominating in games they are supposed to, they could find themselves in a good position for the playoffs later on down the road.
Phoenix Suns following Dillon Brooks’ energy, lead Grizzlies at halftime
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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
