Warriors Stun Suns With Historic Fourth-Quarter Comeback as Spencer Erupts for Career-High 20

Pat Spencer scored a career-high 20 points, Gui Santos added 18 and the shorthanded Golden State Warriors erased a 14-point deficit in the fourth quarter to beat the Phoenix Suns 101-97 on Thursday night in a stunning comeback performance at Chase Center. Spencer's breakout performance led an unlikely closing lineup that turned a seemingly certain loss into a dramatic victory for the injury-depleted Warriors. Spencer splashed a career-high six three-pointers on 11 attempts to account for most of his 20 points, leading Golden State with 15 points before halftime on five long-range makes. The undrafted guard's shooting prowess kept the Warriors within striking distance throughout the contest. Gui Santos contributed 18 points in his expanded role, while De'Anthony Melton added 17, Gary Payton II chipped in 15, and veteran Al Horford provided 13 points off the bench. The Warriors' depth was tested to its limits, but the collective effort proved too much for Phoenix to handle down the stretch. The Suns appeared to have the game firmly in control, building a commanding 14-point advantage in the fourth quarter behind strong performances from Dillon Brooks and Grayson Allen. Brooks led all Phoenix scorers with 24 points, showcasing his two-way impact on both ends of the floor. Allen added 21 points, including several crucial baskets that seemed to put the game away. The Suns' offensive execution in the first three quarters gave them every reason to believe they would escape the Bay Area with a road victory. Golden State's fourth-quarter rally was fueled by relentless defensive pressure and timely shot-making from unexpected sources. The Warriors' coaching staff trusted their deep rotation, and the gamble paid dividends as the younger players rose to the occasion. Spencer continued his hot shooting while the defense clamped down on Phoenix's primary scorers, forcing difficult shots and creating transition opportunities. The energy shift was palpable as the Chase Center crowd sensed a comeback brewing. The Warriors' ability to overcome adversity without several key rotation players speaks volumes about the team's depth and resilience. This victory snapped a potential losing streak and provided valuable momentum as Golden State navigates a challenging stretch of the season. For Spencer, the performance represents a breakthrough moment in his NBA journey, proving he can deliver when his number is called. Santos' continued development also offers encouraging signs for the Warriors' future. The loss drops Phoenix further back in the Western Conference playoff race, squandering an opportunity to gain ground on teams ahead of them in the standings. Protecting double-digit leads has been an ongoing issue for the Suns this season, and this collapse will sting particularly given the circumstances. Golden State's improbable comeback serves as both a confidence booster for the Warriors and a harsh reminder for Phoenix that no lead is safe in the NBA. The Suns must quickly regroup as they continue a difficult road trip through California.