© Jaime Valdez-Imagn Images
PORTLAND — It wasn’t a great start for the Phoenix Suns when they took on the Portland Trail Blazers on Tuesday night, but a rare performance from one of their breakout players helped lead the team to a 130-125 comeback win.
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Who sparked the rally, and just how rare was the performance?
Feb 3, 2026; Portland, Oregon, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Jordan Goodwin (23) recognizes teammate guard Collin Gillespie (12) during the second half against the Portland Trail Blazers at Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Jaime Valdez-Imagn Images
After falling behind by 19 points early in the first quarter, the Suns had plenty of work to do to climb back into the game. While players such as Mark Williams, Grayson Allen and Jordan Goodwin all contributed in big ways, it was guard Collin Gillespie who ignited the comeback with a dominant performance.
The Phoenix guard set a new career high in points, finishing with 30 points, 10 assists, eight 3-pointers, four rebounds and three steals.
There have only been 3 UNDRAFTED players in NBA history to record 30+ PTS, 10+ AST, and 8+ 3PM in a game:
– Jeremy Lin (2013)
– Fred VanVleet (2023)
– Collin Gillespie (2026)pic.twitter.com/32dBIdDmIe
— Underdog (@Underdog) February 4, 2026
Tuesday’s win was critical for Phoenix, which surpassed its preseason projection of 30 wins by earning its 31st victory against the Trail Blazers. Much of that success came from Gillespie’s efficient shooting and steady playmaking, as his 3-point barrage helped turn the tide.
Gillespie’s performance against Portland was anything but ordinary. He became just the third undrafted player in NBA history to record at least 30 points, 10 assists and eight made 3-pointers in a single game.
Feb 3, 2026; Portland, Oregon, USA; Portland Trail Blazers forward Jerami Grant (9) defends Phoenix Suns guard Collin Gillespie (12) during the second half at Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Jaime Valdez-Imagn Images
Hailing from Villanova and going undrafted in 2022, Gillespie battled his way onto an NBA roster through two-way deals and limited minutes early in his career. This season has proven to be the culmination of that hard work, as he has emerged as a valuable starter and depth piece with injuries plaguing the Suns.
Gillespie’s performance also highlights the growing impact of undrafted players in meaningful NBA roles. Just last season, he split time between the NBA and the G League. Now a full-time contributor at the league level, the Phoenix guard is showing what hard work, dedication and opportunity can produce.
Jan 25, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Collin Gillespie (12) drives to the basket against Miami Heat forward Jaime Jaquez Jr. (11) in the first half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
The Suns now head back home and will return to action Thursday, Feb. 5, against the Golden State Warriors at 8 p.m.
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Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde
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