Yardbarker
x
Phoenix Suns fans encouraged about future after shutting down Wembanyama
Allan Henry-Imagn Images

When the final buzzer sounded at Footprint Center, it wasn’t just the scoreboard that mattered; it was the message. The Phoenix Suns, who have recently been criticized for their effort on defense, showcased a defensive masterpiece that neutralized San Antonio’s 7-foot-4 phenom, Victor Wembanyama. Fans left the arena with something they haven’t consistently felt this season, and that is hope for the future.

Phoenix’s rotations were crisp, their switches seamless. Wembanyama was held to only 9 points and shot 4-for-14. Shutting down one of the biggest stars in the NBA definitely put a spotlight on how the Suns made adjustments with their defensive capabilities.

The Suns were able to hold the Spurs to shooting 10-for-41 from the three-point line and truly took San Antonio out of it early and often, and even led by 31 points in the third quarter. It was a dominating team win for Phoenix that will truly galvanize their roster going forward.

Phoenix Suns fans react to the win over the Spurs:

For Suns fans, the takeaway is clear. This team is evolving in more ways than one as their defense isn’t an afterthought anymore, and can now be a massive part of the identity between Phoenix’s stars. It’s the kind of performance that bridges local excitement with national respect, suggesting that the Suns’ pursuit of a title might finally have the backbone it’s been missing.

This article first appeared on Burn City Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads:

Customize Your Newsletter

Yardbarker +

Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!