Suns' Jordan Ott reacts to historic free throw disparity in 120-111 win over Mavericks

Phoenix Suns head coach Jordan Ott discusses how the lopsided free throw numbers impacted his team's victory over the Dallas Mavericks.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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The Phoenix Suns defeated the Dallas Mavericks 120-111 despite a historic free throw disparity, with the Mavericks attempting 44 free throws compared to just 9 for the Suns. Suns head coach Jordan Ott reacted candidly to the free throw imbalance and how it disrupted the flow of the game for his team. Despite the Mavericks making a late run to bring the game within 6 points, the Suns were able to hold on for the victory.

Why it matters

The Suns' ability to win despite such a lopsided free throw differential is an impressive feat, highlighting the team's resilience and ability to adapt. The game also shines a light on the impact free throw disparities can have on the flow and momentum of a basketball game.

The details

The Mavericks attempted 44 free throws compared to just 9 for the Suns, a differential of 35 free throws. This is the highest free throw disparity in an NBA game in the past 5 seasons. The Suns had built a 31-point lead, but the Mavericks were able to chip away at it by attacking the rim and drawing fouls. Suns head coach Jordan Ott noted that the constant stoppages for free throws disrupted the flow of the game for his team.

  • The game was played on February 10, 2026.
  • The Mavericks' 44-9 free throw advantage is the highest in an NBA game in the past 5 seasons.

The players

Jordan Ott

The head coach of the Phoenix Suns, who reacted candidly to the free throw disparity in his team's win over the Dallas Mavericks.

Devin Booker

The star player for the Phoenix Suns, who hit a clutch fadeaway shot late in the game to secure the victory for his team.

Cooper Flagg

A player for the Dallas Mavericks, who was able to draw 23 free throws for his team through his size and craftiness.

Khris Middleton

A player for the Dallas Mavericks, who also contributed to the team's high free throw total through his play.

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What they’re saying

“When Phoenix found itself up 31 points, it was moving the ball and pushing the pace to catch Dallas on the run and out of place. It wasn't until the tempo slowed down and the Mavericks kept attacking the rim that the dynamic of the game changed. The size of Cooper Flagg and craftiness of Khris Middleton gifted them 23 free throws and aid their team's run.”

— Jordan Ott, Head Coach

“Ott complained that once play is stopped for free throws, the flow of the game is ruined and makes it out of sync for his players. He was proud on how his guys endured and pivoted from the free throw disparity.”

— Jordan Ott, Head Coach

What’s next

The Suns have one more game before the All-Star break, where they will look to build on this hard-fought victory over the Mavericks.

The takeaway

The Suns' ability to overcome a historic free throw disparity and still secure the win showcases the team's resilience and adaptability. This game highlights the impact free throw numbers can have on the flow and momentum of a basketball game, and the Suns' performance demonstrates their ability to navigate such challenges.