On March 24, 2017, Devin Booker, a rising star for the Phoenix Suns, delivered one of the most electrifying performances in NBA history. At just 20 years old, Booker became the youngest player ever to score 70 points in a single game, achieving the feat against the Boston Celtics at TD Garden. Despite the Suns falling short in a 130-120 loss, Booker’s offensive explosion cemented his place among the league’s elite scorers.
A Night to Remember
Booker’s scoring barrage started relatively quietly, as he tallied just 19 points in the first half. The Suns struggled early, and Boston controlled much of the game. However, in the second half, Booker erupted, putting on a scoring clinic that had fans and analysts in awe. His 51 second-half points showcased his ability to score from anywhere on the court, whether through smooth mid-range jumpers, aggressive drives to the basket, or clutch three-pointers.
Breaking Records and Making History
Booker’s 70-point performance made him just the sixth player in NBA history to reach that mark, joining the ranks of legends like Wilt Chamberlain, Kobe Bryant, David Thompson, David Robinson, and Elgin Baylor. He also became the youngest player to accomplish the feat, surpassing Thompson, who had previously held the record. Additionally, he set a new Suns franchise record for most points in a game, surpassing Tom Chambers’ 60-point performance in 1990.
Efficiency and Versatility
Booker’s scoring wasn’t just about volume—it was about efficiency. He shot 21-of-40 from the field, 4-of-11 from three-point range, and an impressive 24-of-26 from the free-throw line. His ability to draw fouls and convert at the charity stripe demonstrated his high basketball IQ and composure under pressure. Booker also contributed beyond scoring, adding eight rebounds, six assists, and three steals to his historic stat line.
The Reaction and Controversy
While many praised Booker’s performance, others questioned the Suns’ approach in the closing minutes of the game. Phoenix intentionally fouled late to extend the game, allowing Booker more opportunities to reach the 70-point milestone. Celtics players, including Jae Crowder and Isaiah Thomas, expressed their disapproval, feeling that the Suns were prioritizing an individual achievement over the game’s competitive spirit. However, Booker and the Suns defended their strategy, emphasizing the historic nature of the moment.
Legacy of the Performance
Booker’s 70-point explosion was a defining moment in his career, serving as a preview of his potential as one of the league’s premier scorers. It silenced critics who doubted his ability to carry a franchise and solidified his reputation as an offensive powerhouse. Since that night, Booker has continued to establish himself as one of the NBA’s best shooting guards, leading the Suns to the NBA Finals in 2021 and earning multiple All-Star selections.
Though the Suns lost the game, Booker’s performance remains one of the most remarkable scoring displays in modern NBA history. March 24, 2017, will forever be remembered as the night Devin Booker announced himself as a future superstar.
