Phoenix Suns Clinch 1st NBA Playoff Berth Since 2010

PHOENIX, AZ — There will be playoff basketball in the Valley for the first time in 11 years in 2021.

That's because the Phoenix Suns beat the Los Angeles Clippers, 109-101, on Wednesday night, securing a top-six spot in the NBA's Western Conference.

The Suns, who currently have the NBA's second-best win-loss record (44-18), have accumulated the franchise's most wins in a season since 2010, when they went 54-28.

Wednesday's playoff-clinching victory over the Clippers saw guards Chris Paul and Devin Booker pave the way toward history, with the former scoring 28 points, while Booker added 21.

Suns head coach Monty Williams described Wednesday's playoff-clinching win as a positive step, but said his team still has much more to accomplish.

"We are not satisfied. We are not settling," coach Monty Williams said after the win. "We feel like we’re just scratching the surface as far as the way we want to play, the way we can play. But this is a huge moment for our organization. It’s a huge moment for the fans in this city and in this state, and sometimes you just got to pause and take stock in what’s happening. For that, I’m a grateful coach and man."

The Suns are one game back of the Utah Jazz, who have the best record in the association.

The two sides will meet at Phoenix Suns Arena at 7 p.m. Friday, with the home squad having a shot at tying the Jazz atop the conference with a victory.

The Suns have won the first two contests this season against the Jazz, beating Utah, 106-95 and 117-113 in previous contests.

Tickets to Friday's contest against the Jazz can be purchased on the Suns' website.