Ricky Rubio signed autographs for adoring fans, talked with previous backcourt partner Donovan Mitchell and received a resounding ovation in the pregame introductions at Vivint Smart Home Arena.
“I had great memories over here, and still have a lot of friends,” Rubio said.
Then he proceeded to take it to his former team.
The veteran point guard nearly posted a triple double of 22 points, 11 assists to only one turnover and seven steals in leading Phoenix past Utah, 131-111, in his first return to Salt Lake City since joining the Suns last summer.
“Ricky coming back here, that’s a tough game to play against your former team,” Suns coach Monty Williams said.