Kings Show Their Clutch DNA: DeRozan and Fox Power Through in Phoenix
In a game that showcased the Sacramento Kings’ resilience and star power, DeMar DeRozan and De’Aaron Fox led their team to a thrilling 127-118 overtime victory against the Phoenix Suns at the Footprint Center on November 10, 2024.
The Kings, coming off their worst shooting performance in over two decades, faced early challenges when sixth man Malik Monk left the game with an ankle sprain. However, this setback didn’t stop Sacramento from delivering a masterclass in clutch performance.
DeRozan, showing why he’s considered one of the NBA’s most reliable players in crucial moments, poured in 34 points, including 21 in the fourth quarter and overtime combined. The veteran’s mid-range mastery proved especially valuable when the game tightened up.
Fox, the reigning Clutch Player of the Year, matched DeRozan’s overtime heroics with eight points of his own in the extra period. His final stat line of 20 points, 11 rebounds, and 8 assists demonstrated his all-around impact on the game.
Keegan Murray continued his strong start to the season, securing his fifth double-double with 14 points and 13 rebounds. His crucial putback with 3.2 seconds left in regulation forced overtime and changed the game’s momentum.
The Suns, playing without Kevin Durant (27.6 points per game), relied heavily on Bradley Beal (28 points) and Devin Booker (23 points, 12 assists). Despite their efforts and home court advantage, they couldn’t contain Sacramento’s overtime surge.
Kevin Huerter provided early spark for the Kings, hitting four three-pointers in the first half and finishing with 14 points, five rebounds, and three assists before foul trouble limited his impact.
The victory wasn’t just about offense. The Kings have shown marked improvements on defense this season, with Fox leading the NBA in defensive field goal percentage at 34.5%. The addition of DeRozan’s scoring prowess to this defensive evolution suggests Sacramento is building something special.
The Kings’ resilience was particularly impressive considering their recent shooting struggles and the absence of Monk. Their ability to overcome these obstacles and secure a victory against a strong Suns team speaks volumes about their growth as contenders in the Western Conference.
Sacramento now faces a quick turnaround, heading to San Antonio for the second game of their back-to-back set. With this momentum-building victory, the Kings (6-4) continue to show why they’re considered one of the most exciting teams to watch in the NBA.
The win demonstrates Sacramento’s ability to compete at the highest level, even when not at full strength. As they continue their road trip, the Kings have sent a clear message to the rest of the league: they’re not just here to participate—they’re here to compete for championships.