The Phoenix Suns started the NBA finals in great fashion as they defeated the Milwaukee Bucks 118-105 and took the early lead. This is the first time in their 53-year history that the Suns have won the first game in all three rounds of the playoffs.
It was once again a Devin Booker and Chris Paul show. D Book dropped 27 points whereas CP3 came up with a game high 32 points. For the Bucks it was Khris Middleton who continued his good form by scoring 29 points. On the other hand, Giannis Antetokounmpo who returned from injury registered a 20 point double double.
For most of the game the Suns were ahead of the Bucks but Middleton and Giannis tried their best to keep them within range. But it soon got out of hand the Suns deservedly won game 1 in the NBA finals.
It was Devin Booker’s first NBA finals and he did not let the pressure get to his head. He was calm and composed and supported Chris Paul with aplomb. The 24-year-old started with a bang scoring 12 points in the first quarter and followed it up with another 15 along with three steals which made a huge difference for the Suns in their statement win. He also made the Bucks pay for fouling him as he nailed down all of his 10 free throws.
After the game, he was all suited up for an interview with Hall of Famer Isaiah Thomas. During the interaction, the 24-year old was asked about the Suns’ journey to the finals of the NBA, to which he expressed, “Things are the same in every situation. We’ve been the laughing stock of the league for the five years I’ve been here now. I always tell people, I wouldn’t want the journey or the process to be any other way. I was fortunate enough to be a young player that was thrown into the fire, got the chance to make mistakes. Seeing double teams every night, seeing every type of defense. So now I feel like I’ve been here before, I’ve experienced it.”
The Bucks have some solid defenders in Jrue Holiday and PJ Tucker who were exceptional against some of the top scorers in the league. But none could sway Booker from his ultimate goal.
Speaking about the Suns roster Booker admitted that he was looking to play alongside such teammates for the last few years. He expressed his gratitude towards his coaches and father. “Back to just watching the game, loving the game, I’ve always been a fan. Having a father in my bloodline that played the game, the blueprint for the success for me. So taking it day-by-day, it’s a constant pursuit to get better,” he added.
