Dillon Brooks says Timberwolves ‘talked too early’ after Suns’ wild comeback win

Mack Baltes

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Dillon Brooks says Timberwolves ‘talked too early’ after Suns’ wild comeback win image

The Phoenix Suns edged the Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday night in a heated NBA Cup matchup that featured chippy exchanges, big scoring performances and a dramatic finish.

The on-court tension was highlighted by a running battle between Suns forward Dillon Brooks and Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards, who traded baskets — and words — throughout the contest.

In the third quarter, Edwards drilled a step-back 3-pointer over Brooks, then turned and barked at the veteran forward as Phoenix called a timeout. The moment seemed to fuel both players.

Brooks ultimately led all Suns scorers with 22 points while adding five rebounds and two steals. Edwards delivered an explosive showing himself, finishing with a game-high 41 points along with five rebounds, four assists, four steals and a block.

Despite Edwards’ big night, it was Brooks and the Suns who emerged victorious thanks to one of the wildest closing stretches of the season. Phoenix trailed 113-105 with just 50 seconds remaining before mounting a furious rally. The Suns scored nine unanswered points to steal a 114-113 win, capped by a clutch floater from Collin Gillespie with six seconds left.

Following the game, Brooks addressed the back-and-forth and said Minnesota’s confidence may have shifted too soon.

“They were talking too early, and I love that,” Brooks said. “When guys get too confident and once the pressure starts heating up, their eyes start getting big and they start getting scared. The person [Julius Randle] who was talking too much made the two turnovers and missed the shot.”

With the comeback victory, the Suns improved to 2-0 in NBA Cup Group play and 10-6 overall. The win also marked Phoenix’s seventh in its last eight games as the team continues to surge despite multiple key injuries.

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