PHOENIX, Ariz. – It was a strong first half for Rudy Gobert as he led the Utah Jazz to a 53-43 halftime lead. Gobert already picked up a double-double in the first 24 minutes with 12 points and 10 rebounds.

Gobert played 18 of the possible 24 minutes to get the double-double.

The star center for the Jazz recorded his 53rd double-double of the season, which is second-best in the NBA behind Andre Drummonds’ 55 with the Detroit Pistons.

Gobert is averaging 15.3 points and 12.8 rebounds.

Most of his points came around the rim as he took advantage of the Suns rookie center in 2018 No. 1 overall pick Deandre Ayton, who seemed to have a hard time gaining a defensive position on Gobert.

Rudy Gobert with the first half double-double for the @utahjazz in Phoenix!

His line is 12 PTS, 10 REB & 1 AST for a game-high 25.5 #NBAFantasy points at the halftime break!#TeamIsEverything pic.twitter.com/YJZV26nVfk

— NBA Fantasy (@NBAFantasy) March 14, 2019

He made four of his seven shots in the first half and was 4-for-6 from the free throw line.

when you put the Thin Mints on the top shelf pic.twitter.com/okg89Su8VU

— Utah Jazz (@utahjazz) March 14, 2019

The Jazz had 18 assists in the first half and made 20 field goals. It was the great ball movement and finding Gobert in an advantageous position in the post.