PHOENIX -- Penny Hardaway, sidelined for 24 games while recovering from surgery on his right thumb, was activated by the Phoenix Suns on Wednesday.

Hardaway's steady play and experienced leadership had been sorely missed. With him, the Suns were 22-14. Without him, they went 10-14.

Coach Frank Johnson had been forced to go with either second-year pro Joe Johnson or rookie Casey Jacobsen in the backcourt alongside Stephon Marbury.

Hardaway averaged 10.9 points, 5.0 rebounds, 4.2 assists and 1.17 steals in 30.8 minutes per game. Phoenix was 13-5 in games where Hardaway scored in double figures and 9-1 when he had at least seven rebounds.

To make room for him, the Suns placed forward Alton Ford on the injured list with back spasms.