Phoenix Suns guard Chris Paul (3) passes as Los Angeles Clippers guard Reggie Jackson (1) defends during the first half of an NBA basketball game, Wednesday, April 28, 2021, in Phoenix.
Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker (1) drives as Los Angeles Clippers guard Rajon Rondo (4) defends during the first half of an NBA basketball game, Wednesday, April 28, 2021, in Phoenix.
Los Angeles Clippers center Ivica Zubac, right, passes over Phoenix Suns center Deandre Ayton (22) during the first half of an NBA basketball game, Wednesday, April 28, 2021, in Phoenix.
Phoenix Suns guard Jevon Carter shoots as Los Angeles Clippers guard Reggie Jackson, right, defends during the first half of an NBA basketball game, Wednesday, April 28, 2021, in Phoenix.
PHOENIX (AP) — Chris Paul scored 28 points, Devin Booker added 21 and the Phoenix Suns beat the Los Angeles Clippers 109-101 on Wednesday night to clinch a spot in the playoffs for the first time in 11 years.
The Suns finally figured out a way to beat the Clippers, who won the first two games of the season series. Phoenix didn’t trail the entire game but needed a fourth-quarter push to turn back a Los Angeles rally.
The Suns took an 86-80 lead into the final quarter. The Clippers pulled within 93-92 midway though the fourth but Paul scored three consecutive tough baskets to give Phoenix some space.
The 35-year-old Paul continued to play excellent basketball in his 16th NBA season, shooting 10 of 15 from the field, dishing 10 assists and generally looking like a player a decade younger. He was serenaded with “MVP! MVP!” chants from the crowd by the end of the fourth.
The Suns improved to 44-18 while the Clippers fell to 43-21. The teams are currently ranked No. 2 and 3, respectively, in the Western Conference standings.
Paul George led the Clippers with 25 points and 10 rebounds, while Marcus Morris Sr. added 16 points.
The Suns jumped out to a 39-31 lead after one quarter, making 7 of 9 shots from 3-point range. Phoenix pushed the lead to 14 points by midway through the second before settling for a 63-53 halftime advantage.
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