The Atlanta Hawks edged out the Phoenix Suns by a narrow 124–122 margin in a matchup that lived up to its billing between two surging teams. Both squads entered the contest with momentum, but Atlanta’s
late-game resilience ultimately secured the win. The game served as a major test of the Hawks’ ability to withstand adversity — and the Suns’ capacity to close tight contests.
Atlanta demonstrated early that the victory would be a collective effort rather than an individual showcase. Several players delivered standout performances, including Jalen Johnson, who recorded 25 points, 10 rebounds, and seven assists. Nickeil Alexander-Walker added 26 points, while Onyeka Okongwu contributed a significant 27 points, four rebounds, and five assists. Additionally, Dyson Daniels supplied 11 points, 12 assists, and seven rebounds, providing stability on both ends of the floor.
The Hawks’ offensive efficiency kept Phoenix uncomfortable throughout much of the night. Strategic spacing and decisive ball movement generated consistent high-quality looks for Atlanta. However, the Suns shifted momentum dramatically in the third quarter, outscoring Atlanta 37–20. Dillon Brooks led the surge with 16 points in the period, helping Phoenix build what appeared to be a commanding lead.
Head coach Quin Snyder reflected on the pivotal stretch, highlighting the importance of mental toughness amid an opposing run.
“We have talked about it being a game of runs and limiting those runs. I thought defensively we bought in. They were scoring on every possession; however, on the flip side, when the fourth quarter started, it would’ve been really easy on the fourth game of a road trip, down 18 or 20, for us to get down on some level, and that didn’t happen. To me that shows the competitive endurance that we have been talking about. It’s a credit to our guys and their unique game to be on the road and have that happen—getting blitzed in the third quarter—and responding the way we did.”
Atlanta responded emphatically. After trailing by as many as 22 points, the Hawks erupted for 47 fourth-quarter points, combining tightened defensive execution with efficient scoring in clutch moments. Zacharie Risacher sparked the rally early in the quarter with multiple steals that ignited transition baskets.
Snyder noted the importance of Risacher’s energy during the comeback:
“Zaccharie got us going as he got a couple of steals, and obviously we were able to get out in transition. Nickeil is a battler. He’s a tough guy who loves to compete, as we’ve been talking about—going to the rim and getting in the paint.”
However, Atlanta faced a setback when Risacher suffered a hard fall in the fourth quarter. He did not return and was later diagnosed with a hip contusion after remaining motionless for several minutes. Despite earlier miscues, the Hawks maintained their composure in the final possessions to close out the victory.
With the win, the Hawks completed a sweep of their road trip and extended their streak to five consecutive victories. They will return home on Tuesday to face the Detroit Pistons, a matchup expected to challenge Atlanta’s continued momentum.
