Suns scorch to start, but simmer down as they lead the Knicks at halftime

PHOENIX — The Phoenix Suns, donning their iconic “The Valley” jerseys, started the game off hot against the New York Knicks on Friday night before the game evened out as the half wound down.

Jan 9, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Dillon Brooks (3) against the New York Knicks in the first half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Dillon Brooks once again brought the energy early on, with 11 points in the first quarter and going 3-for-5 from beyond the arc. Phoenix led New York by 11 points halfway through the quarter, but the Knicks slowly clawed their way back afterwards to make it a five-point game.

The early energy wasn’t carried over to start the second quarter, as the Suns and Knicks exchanged leads. Key fouls and a technical on New York’s OG Anunoby helped Phoenix stay within one or two points. Key 3-pointers from Brooks and Booker — and a layup from Grayon Allen — kept the Suns ahead at halftime, 62-60.

Jan 9, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker (1) controls the ball against New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson (11) in the first half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Brooks finished the half with 20 points after his heater, with three rebounds and two assists.

New York’s Jalen Brunson led the team with 13 points in the first half.

Jan 9, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; New York Knicks center Karl-Anthony Towns (32) controls the ball against Phoenix Suns center Mark Williams (15) in the first half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

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Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde