© Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
OKLAHOMA CITY – It was a rough first half for the Phoenix Suns, as they were outmanned without Devin Booker and Jalen Green. Phoenix fought hard, though the Thunder took advantage of the injuries, and lead 74-48 at halftime.
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Dec 10, 2025; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) moves the ball past Phoenix Suns guard Grayson Allen (8) during the first quarter at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
Early turnovers were hurting the Suns early, as they initially let Oklahoma City go on a 17-7 run to start the game. Phoenix was hitting back initially but was giving quick opportunities right back to the Thunder, surrendering any sort of momentum. The Thunder weren’t missing their shots either, and Phoenix was finding themselves playing catch-up as they were down 38-23 at the end of the first quarter.
Dec 10, 2025; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Dillon Brooks (3) fouls Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) during the first quarter at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
One of the main focal points of this Suns offense is Devin Booker, and after being upgraded to a questionable injury designation, he was unable to play and was inactive on Wednesday night. Without Booker, the Suns were aiming to take more three-point shots to build that volume back up that they are missing. When those shots don’t fall, Phoenix’s defense back in transition was lacking, and the Thunder were able to take advantage.
Dec 10, 2025; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) shoots against the Phoenix Suns during the first quarter at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
Phoenix will need to focus on fixing the turnover issues and get back to what made their offense work without Devin Booker and Jalen Green, which is embracing the depth and spreading the ball around. The rhythm wasn’t there, and the defense was nonexistent. Phoenix has a huge hole to climb out of, and will need all hands on deck to make sure they come out with a win and advance in the Emirates NBA Cup.
Suns’ Devin Booker and Jalen Green spotted in pregame workouts on Wednesday
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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
