Phoenix Suns Team Report - January 29

(Basketball News) - The Phoenix Suns found themselves on the losing end of a 101-79 decision against the Indiana Pacers at Conseco Fieldhouse.

Joe Johnson led the Suns with 23 points and Shawn Marion contributed 16 points and seven boards, as Phoenix lost for the fourth time in five games.

Indiana took control of the contest by opening the second half on a 25-6 run, turning a strong 52-44 lead into a 77-50 blowout with 4:11 left in the third quarter.

The Suns had the Pacers’ lead below 20 points on a couple occasions in the final stanza, but never got closer than 18 points.

Phoenix continued to play without reigning Rookie of the Year Amare Stoudemire, who has missed the team’s last six games with an ankle injury. Stoudemire, who has played just 23 games this season, is expected to miss the remainder of the Phoenix’ five-game road trip.

The Suns waived center Scott Williams prior to the contest after the 14-year veteran turned down an offer to join the team’s coaching staff, with the hopes of continuing his playing career. Williams averaged 7.3 points and 4.5 rebounds in 16 games this season.

Phoenix, which will play the third leg of its trip on Friday against Washington, is 6-19 on the road this season.