Devin Booker and Cam Whitmore resumed their contentious relationship as the Phoenix Suns clashed with the Houston Rockets on Thursday. Renewing their rivalry from an earlier encounter this season, the guard and forward found themselves in a heated exchange, resulting in both players receiving double technical fouls.
Booker, who struggled with his shooting, faced Whitmore’s taunts throughout the game. However, the Suns’ four-time NBA All-Star responded with a stellar 35-point performance and engaged in a skirmish with the Houston player.
Reflecting on the altercation during post-game interviews, Booker shared his perspective:
“I think it’s always fun to turn it up a little bit. Getting ultra-competitive. That’s what this sports about; I feel like we’re getting away from it, as a whole, NBA… Nothing personal, just competition.”
The confrontation occurred with 6:48 remaining in the game, following a three-pointer by Booker that extended the Suns’ lead to 93-84. Whitmore’s shove prompted Booker’s retaliation, resulting in a physical confrontation and a flurry of verbal exchanges before both players were separated.
Booker concluded the game with an impressive stat line of 35 points, seven rebounds, and three assists. Kevin Durant contributed 24 points, seven rebounds, and six assists, while Jusuf Nurkic recorded a double-double with 16 points, 13 rebounds, and three blocks before fouling out.
The victory propelled the Suns to a 35-24 record and extended their winning streak to two games.
