Booker Breaks Suns’ Scoring Record in Overtime Loss to Blazers

PHOENIX, Ariz. — Devin Booker made history Monday night, breaking the Phoenix Suns‘ all-time scoring record, but his 34-point performance wasn’t enough to secure a win as the Suns fell 121-119 in overtime to the Portland Trail Blazers at the Footprint Center.

Booker surpassed Walter Davis‘ 38-year-old franchise record during the third quarter, finishing the game with 34 points. Despite his heroics, the Suns (25-24) lost their second straight game, while the Trail Blazers (21-29) extended their winning streak to four.

The game was a nail-biter, with six of the 14 lead changes occurring in the fourth quarter. The margin never exceeded three points in the final six minutes of regulation. Royce O’Neale tied the game at 107-107 with a 3-pointer assisted by Booker at 1.7 seconds left, forcing overtime after Bradley Beal blocked a potential game-winning shot by Anfernee Simons.

In overtime, Booker had a chance to tie the game after being fouled on a 3-point attempt with 4.1 seconds remaining. He made the first two free throws but missed the third. Former Suns center Deandre Ayton, now with the Blazers, grabbed the rebound and made one of two free throws to seal the victory.

Booker’s record-breaking moment came at 7:34 in the third quarter when he hit a 3-pointer off a kick-out pass from Nick Richards. The game was briefly paused as Booker received congratulations from teammates and fans. “It’s an honor to be part of this franchise’s history,” Booker said after the game. “But we wanted the win more than anything.”

Kevin Durant contributed 27 points for the Suns, while Bradley Beal added 21 off the bench. Ayton led the Blazers with 25 points and 20 rebounds, and Toumani Camara provided a spark with 17 points, including 5-of-7 from beyond the arc.

The Suns struggled in the second half after a strong start, hitting just 5-of-20 from deep after making 10-of-22 in the first half. Portland capitalized on Phoenix’s defensive lapses, outhustling the Suns on loose balls and rebounds in the closing minutes.

Phoenix will look to bounce back Wednesday when they face the Western Conference-leading Oklahoma City Thunder (39-9) to conclude their four-game road trip.