Impressive debut for the Utah Jazz – 129-108 triumph over the Clippers with three players over 20 points
The Utah Jazz started their NBA season in an impressive way, defeating the Los Angeles Clippers 129-108 in Salt Lake City. Three players on the team scored over 20 points, in one of the most prolific debuts in club history.
Kessler led the performance – Utah opener points record
Walker Kessler was the big star, with 22 points, 9 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 blocks, leading Utah to a comfortable victory.
Alongside him, Lauri Markkanen and Bryce Sensabeau each added 20 points, with the Jazz finishing the game on 55.2% shooting from the field and 38 assists overall.
Will Hardy’s side achieved a premiership points record and celebrated their first season-opening win since 2022-23.
The Jazz cleaned up early – Leading by 37 points
Utah never lost the lead. Markkanen opened the scoring with a 3-pointer and a nail, setting the tone for the offense. Kessler then went on a personal 5-point streak, bringing the lead to +12 (26-14).
The first quarter ended with a 24-5 split score and a 43-19 lead, and at halftime the Jazz found themselves ahead 78-47 — the most points they’ve scored at halftime in two years!
The protagonists and the debuts
Keionte George added 16 points and 9 assists, while Taylor Hendricks, after missing almost a year due to injury, had 13 points and 5 rebounds.
Ace Bailey, No5 of the Draft, made his NBA debut, recording 2 points, 4 rebounds and 2 assists despite the flu that is bothering him.
For the Clippers, Ivica Zubac had 19 points, while James Harden had 15 points and 11 assists. Kawhi Leonard was held low with 10 points, while newly acquired Bradley Beal and Chris Paul had limited contributions.
Former Jazz player John Collins stood out from the Clippers bench with 14 points and 7 rebounds.
Next dates in the NBA
Utah Jazz: next game away, against the Memphis Grizzlies.
Los Angeles Clippers: return to their home court to face the Phoenix Suns.
