Suns: Jusuf Nurkic Sets Ridiculous Franchise Record in a Feat That Hasn't Been Done Since 2010

Phoenix Suns center Jusuf Nurkic had an outstanding performance on the boards, securing a career-high and franchise record of 31 rebounds against the Oklahoma City Thunder on Sunday, March 3, at the Footprint Center in Phoenix, Arizona.

The 29-year-old also had 14 points on 7-of-16 shooting and four assists for the evening.

The seven-foot center's 31 boards mark the highest in the NBA since November 2010 when Kevin Love, then with the Minnesota Timberwolves, achieved the same feat, coincidentally also contributing 31 points in that remarkable performance.

Both performances are the highest rebounding totals in a single NBA game since 1997, while Nurkic's showing is only the fifth 30-rebound game recorded in the 21st century.

Before the Bosnian's remarkable performance, Tyson Chandler in 2016 and the late Paul Silas in 1971 were tied for the Suns' single-game record with 27 rebounds.

No other NBA player during the 2023-24 season has managed to secure more than 26 rebounds in a single game before Nurkic.

Thunder prevent Suns rally to take top Western Conference spot

Despite Nurkic's historic night, the Suns could not secure a victory as their comeback efforts fell short, ultimately losing 118-110.

The Suns faced a significant deficit, trailing by as much as 24 points in the third quarter. However, they mounted a comeback, concluding the quarter with a 25-5 run and taking the lead early in the fourth quarter.