© Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
OKLAHOMA CITY – It will be a tough test for the Phoenix Suns tonight, though an anticipated one as they take on the defending NBA Champions in the quarter-finals of the 2025 Emirates NBA Cup.
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Nov 28, 2025; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Jordan Goodwin (23) shoots a three point basket as Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) defends during the second quarter at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
The NBA Cup wasn’t designed to just introduce new hardware; it was brought along to show the growth of new talented teams against the strongest contenders early on as a test of where each franchise stands. Tonight, when the defending NBA champion Oklahoma City Thunder square off against a Phoenix Suns team continuing to establish an identity, the stakes stretch far beyond midseason bragging rights.
Nov 28, 2025; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder guard Luguentz Dort (5) drives to the basket against Phoenix Suns forward Dillon Brooks (3) during the second half at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
Everything shifts if Devin Booker can suit up for the Suns. Upgraded to questionable, his return would instantly help Phoenix’s offense get back on track when it stalls out, or help keep the foot on the gas pedal when they need to hold a lead. When he plays, the Suns’ offensive efficiency jumps noticeably, and opponents defend them with a different level of respect. His presence isn’t just a tactical lift; it’s psychological.
Nov 28, 2025; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA Suns guard Devin Booker (1) passes as Thunder guard Luguentz Dort (5) defends the pass during the second half at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
The Oklahoma City Thunder enter with a different kind of confidence, one that is earned. Fresh off last year’s Championship run, they treat the Cup as a continuation of their climb, not a detour. Their spacing, pace, and defensive length form the West’s most sustainable blueprint, and that continuity shows in crunch-time poise. Although the X-factor tonight might be Collin Gillespie, who erupted in the Suns’ last Cup contest and openly admitted the $1 million prize adds fuel. Strategically, Phoenix needs this game more. Oklahoma City knows who it is. The Suns are still learning, and winning under a national spotlight, against the league’s defending champs, would accelerate belief in Phoenix.
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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
