Trae Young 23 points and eight assist lifted the Atlanta Hawks (20-40) past the ailing Phoenix Suns 120-112.
On the back end of a back-to-back, the Hawks were able to fight through a six-point deficit late in the fourth quarter. Collectively, the defensive effort by Atlanta propelled them to a victory. DeWayne Dedmon helped out with six blocks.
“I thought our guys were scrambling and there were some downhill penetration. And when that occurs, they’re sending it to DeWayne and he does a good job sitting at the rim,” stated coach Lloyd Pierce.
The Suns had the lead for most of the game led by 29 points for Tyler Johnson and Devin Booker added 26 points, eight assist and seven rebounds. They fell to a NBA worst record, 11-50 with their 17th loss in a row.
“It’s tough playing in meaningless basketball games. I watch big games every time they come on TV and that playoff atmosphere is something I want to be a part of,” said Booker.
The Hawks had a balanced attack from their staters including Kent Bazemore adding 23 points, Taurean Waller-Prince chipped in 21 points and eight rebounds and John Collins finished with 19 points and 14 rebounds.
The Hawks will travel to Houston to take on the Rockets on Monday night.
