Goran Dragic has claimed that a quick start was crucial in helping the Phoenix Suns overcome the Indiana Pacers on Thursday night.

The Suns scored 36 points in the first quarter on their way to a 102-94 victory, and Dragic was eager to praise the way his side started the game.

"We are at our best when we start the game well," Dragic told reporters. "We played an up-tempo game, so I think they were a little bit tired."

The Phoenix guard, who finished the game with 28 points, admitted that Indiana's response in the second half made it very difficult for the visitors at the Bankers Life Fieldhouse.

"They came really strong. They made some open shots and that made it a little bit of a different game," Dragic added.

The loss was just Indiana's second failure at home this season.