Hawks Rally to Defeat Suns with Late-Game Surge

Post by : Mara Rahim

In a riveting display of determination, the Atlanta Hawks overcame a daunting 22-point deficit in the fourth quarter to defeat the Phoenix Suns 124-122 on Sunday. The thrilling comeback unfolded in Phoenix, with the Hawks showcasing not only skill but also unwavering teamwork and belief as they reclaimed the lead in the dying moments, thrilling fans throughout the climax of the match.

Nickeil Alexander-Walker emerged as the standout performer, recording 26 points overall, with a staggering 16 points coming in the pivotal fourth quarter. His poise, leadership, and timely scoring were crucial in keeping Atlanta's hopes alive when the outlook seemed bleak.

Jalen Johnson also made significant contributions, amassing 25 points and 10 rebounds, reinforcing Atlanta's strategic presence in the paint. Onyeka Okongwu delivered an exceptional performance, netting 27 points and generating crucial plays in the game's final moments. Meanwhile, Dyson Daniels adeptly guided the offense with 11 points and 12 assists, achieving a double-double and aiding in the team’s fifth consecutive win, capping off their western road trip with an impressive 4-0 record.

For the Suns, Dillon Brooks led the scoring with 34 points, while Devin Booker added 27 points and Collin Gillespie contributed 15 points along with eight rebounds and seven assists. Entering this match with a five-game winning streak, Phoenix appeared poised for another victory as they extended their lead to a staggering 28-4 at the end of the third quarter and beginning of the fourth.

Despite their commanding 103-81 lead with ten minutes to go, the Hawks exhibited relentless spirit and began chipping away at the deficit. They stunned everyone with a remarkable 20-0 run, narrowing the score to 107-106 within the final four minutes. Even as the Suns attempted to maintain their advantage, Atlanta's resolve remained unyielding.

In a critical moment, Okongwu executed an electrifying alley-oop dunk, giving the Hawks a 117-116 lead. As the tension mounted, each possession became crucial. Johnson's two free throws extended their lead by three points, though Booker quickly responded to narrow the gap.

Okongwu’s subsequent free throws, delivered with 10 seconds remaining, provided some breathing room. Despite Booker’s last-minute foul shots, the clock was against the Suns. Alexander-Walker’s free throw with only 3.1 seconds left eventually cemented the victory, and Royce O’Neale's long-range buzzer-beater attempt fell short, sealing Atlanta's formidable comeback.

However, the match saw a challenging moment for the Hawks when Zaccharie Risacher sustained a left hip contusion following a dunk attempt and did not return to the game. The Suns were also without Grayson Allen, and the Hawks missed Kristaps Porzingis due to knee soreness.

Ultimately, the Hawks' remarkable fourth-quarter performance—outscoring the Suns 47-27—underpinned their resilience, teamwork, and unwavering belief, marking a memorable victory.