Jalen Green skipped his usual pregame nap because of excitement and scored 29 points in his Phoenix Suns debut on November 6, setting a franchise record with six three-pointers.
The 23-year-old guard broke from his normal routine, saying,
“Body-wise, I felt really good. Usually, I take a pregame nap. I couldn't even get my nap in. I was so excited.”
This burst of energy fueled one of the best debut performances in Suns history. Only Charles Barkley scored more in his debut with 37 points in 1992.
Green’s impact was immediate after the Suns traded Kevin Durant to Houston to acquire him. He finished 10-of-20 from the field and helped erase a halftime deficit as the Suns won 115-102.
His first basket set the tone: a twisting layup over Ivica Zubac early in the game. After sinking his first three-pointer with a sidestep jumper, Green felt confident:
“I think after my first three and then a little sidestep, I was like, okay, yeah, here we go. Just to be out there, to see the ball go in, amazing fans here.”
Author’s summary: Jalen Green’s energized Suns debut shattered records and helped secure a strong win, proving his worth immediately after a major trade.