EAST RUTHERFORD, New Jersey (Ticker) -- Looking to improve to
3-0, the Phoenix Suns continue a four-game road trip when they
visit the New Jersey Nets on Saturday.
On Friday, Amare Stoudemire and Shawn Marion each recorded a
double-double in the Suns' 108-98 triumph over the Philadelphia
76ers.
After scoring 23 in the season opener, Stoudemire had 29 points
and 10 rebounds. Marion scored 24 and collected 11 boards for
the Suns, who have won 19 of their last 25 meetings with
Philadelphia.
The Suns are shooting 47 percent (84-of-178) from the field in
their first two games. They have forced a combined 47 turnovers
and limited opponents to just 38 percent (67-of-177) shooting in
a pair of convincing wins.
Phoenix and New Jersey split a two-game series last season with
each team winning on its home floor. The Nets have won four
straight meetings between the two teams at Continental Airlines
Arena.
In its last game, New Jersey escaped with a 111-106 victory over
the Chicago Bulls in double overtime despite leading by as many
as 27 points in the first half.
Richard Jefferson had 26 points, 21 rebounds and nine assists
for New Jersey, but also committed 11 of the teams' 30
turnovers.
Prior to the game on Friday, New Jersey center Alonzo Mourning
asked for management to buy out his contract so he could join a
team with a better chance of winning a championship. On Friday,
the veteran showcased his talent with 17 points and six blocks.
The Nets, who lost their home opener on Wednesday, were 28-13 at
home last season and play seven of their first 10 games at
home.




