The Miami Heat defeated the host Phoenix Suns, 104-96, at Footprint Center on Friday.

A 31-23 first quarter set the tone for Miami in this road victory, maintaining the lead for the final three quarters. They got their lead up to 14 points at times, with Phoenix never attempting a game-tying shot in the second half. The Heat shot 12-of-38 from three-point range, while the Suns shot just 6-of-23 from long distance. Miami doubled up Phoenix in steals, 10-5, while outscoring the Suns in fastbreak scoring, 10-4.

The Heat (21-19) were led by Victor Oldaipo, who provided 26 points, two assists and two steals off the bench. Bam Adebayo led the starters with 21 points, 11 rebounds, two assists and two steals. Jimmy Butler collected 20 points, five rebounds, six assists and two steals, while Max Strus totaled 19 points, two rebounds and three assists.

The Suns (20-20) were led by Deandre Ayton, accruing 23 points, 14 rebounds and two assists. Torrey Craig amassed 17 points and nine boards. Mikal Bridges compiled 15 points, four rebounds, seven assists and two steals, while Landry Shamet finished with 11 points, two rebounds and three assists. Duane Washington led the bench with 13 points, two rebounds and seven assists.

Both teams return to action on Sunday, with Miami returning home to play the surging Brooklyn Nets and Phoenix remaining home to play the Cleveland Cavaliers.