Valley Suns fall short in home opener with Maluach and Fleming debuts

After being assigned to the team by the Phoenix Suns earlier that day, Maluach and Fleming started against Rip City and their impact was immediately felt on both sides of the ball.

Fans weren’t all on board with the idea of moving both rookies down to its G League affiliate, especially Maluach, who was a first-round draft pick from Duke. However, with the Phoenix Suns off for the next several days and both players not seeing as much playing time in the NBA, the move wasn’t too surprising for other fans.

Maluach had nine points, three rebounds and two assists.

Fleming was one of the leading scorers for the Suns with 23 points, 11 rebounds and going 8-for-14 from the field.

Both rookies, despite not seeing much time in the NBA, have made their impact with the Valley. They’re taking the extra time to continue honing their craft and gel well with the team, despite having only played one official game in the G League.

While other players may feel upset being assigned to a different team, Maluach and Fleming have turned it into an opportunity.

Whether they stay with the Valley or are called up again for Phoenix, they have shown what they are capable of when given a chance to shine.

The Valley Suns now head to California to face the Stockton Kings on Wednesday, Nov. 19, at 8 p.m.