Jazz Win First Home Game of Season

Mavericks fall to Jazz

Lauri Markkanen led the Utah Jazz to a 115-113 victory over the Dallas Mavericks at Vivint Arena on Sunday evening, marking the team's first home triumph this season. Markkanen poured in a team-high 29 points on 11-of-18 shooting.

Close match up

The game was closely contested throughout, with neither team able to gain a significant lead. Dallas held a one-point advantage at halftime, but Utah rallied in the third quarter to take a 87-82 lead heading into the final period.

The Mavericks fought back in the fourth quarter and tied the score at 113-113 with just over a minute remaining. However, Markkanen, Walker Kessler, and Malik Beasley combined for three clutch plays at the end to seal the win for the Jazz

Key plays

Markkanen's driving layup with 29 seconds left gave Utah a 115-113 lead. After forcing a Mavericks turnover, Kessler secured the rebound and was fouled. He split a pair of free throws, giving the Jazz a 116-113 lead with 13 seconds left. Tim Hardaway Jr. had a chance to tie the game with a 3-pointer, but his shot was off the mark, and Beasley grabbed the rebound to secure the victory

Jazz improve to 3-2

With the win, the Jazz improved to 3-2 on the season, while the Mavericks fell to 2-3. Markkanen has been a bright spot for Utah this season, averaging 23.2 points per game.

Mavs offense struggles

The Mavericks offense struggled against the Jazz's defense, shooting just 43.5% from the field. Luka Doncic led the way for Dallas with 33 points, but he also committed nine turnovers.

Jazz defense shines

The Jazz defense was impressive, holding the Mavericks to just 28.6% shooting from 3-point range. Kessler was a force in the paint, finishing with 15 points, 22 rebounds, and 4 blocks.

What's next

The Jazz will next host the Golden State Warriors on Tuesday night, while the Mavericks will travel to face the Los Angeles Clippers.