Joel Bartilotta, RotoWire
The Phoenix Suns defeated the Utah Jazz, 97-81, in the first round of the Summer League Playoffs at Cox Pavilion on Wednesday.
Phoenix (2-2) did most of its damage in the second half, outscoring Utah (0-4) by a score of 57-39. Shooting was the key to victory, with the Suns shooting 52 percent from the field and 41 percent from three-point range. The Jazz shot just 36 percent from the field and 30 percent from long distance.
Eric Griffin led the way for Utah with 18 points, 10 rebounds, three assists and four blocks. Spencer Butterfield finished with 11 points and seven rebounds. Devondrick Walker led the bench by dropping 12 points in addition to his three boards.
First-rounder Josh Jackson led Phoenix in scoring, totaling 21 points and 15 rebounds in an impressive performance. Dragen Bender amassed 18 points, five rebounds and two assists. Mike James started at point guard and accrued 18 points, three rebounds and seven assists, while Davon Reed provided 15 points and five rebounds to lead the bench.
The Suns’ Round 2 matchup against the Memphis Grizzlies gets underway Thursday.
