PORTLAND, Ore., Jan. 16 (UPI) -- Joe Johnson had three clutch baskets late in the fourth quarter Thursday night as Phoenix ended a six-game losing streak by downing Portland, 105-96.
Trying to secure their first win of 2004, the Suns led virtually throughout against the struggling Trail Blazers, who clawed within 88-84 with just under seven minutes remaining.
Johnson made sure the Suns kept the lead as he hit two jumpers and a layup in the final 2:31. Each shot answered a basket by the Trail Blazers.
With Amare Stoudemire battling foul trouble, Jake Voskuhl saw increased minutes in the fourth quarter. He responded by scoring eight points and providing an interior presence on defense.
Zach Randolph and Ruben Patterson each scored 21 points for Portland, which lost for the seventh time in eight games.
