UPDATE: Lauri Markkanen has just made history, scoring a staggering 51 points as the Utah Jazz defeated the Phoenix Suns 138-134 in a thrilling overtime showdown on October 30, 2023. This remarkable performance marks Markkanen as the first Jazz player to eclipse the 50-point mark in a regular season game since Karl Malone in 1998.
The Jazz faced a nail-biting finish, nearly succumbing to a last-minute collapse after blowing a seven-point lead with just 19 seconds left in regulation. However, Markkanen’s heroics in overtime, where he scored seven points, propelled Utah to victory. He also recorded 14 rebounds and made an impressive 17 of 17 free throws, tying the franchise record for most free throws without a miss.
Markkanen’s achievement is unprecedented; he is now the first player in Jazz history to record 50 points, 10 rebounds, and 5 made 3-pointers in a single game. His previous career-high was 49 points, set earlier this year on January 5.
This historic game further emphasizes the Jazz’s surprising start to the season. Despite being predicted to struggle, the Jazz are now 2-1 and just a rebound away from being undefeated, having narrowly lost to the Sacramento Kings 105-104.
The Suns, on the other hand, continue to struggle with a record of 1-3, marking their third consecutive loss. Devin Booker showcased his scoring ability with 34 points, including 24 points in the second half, while Grayson Allen contributed 23 points.
In the final moments of regulation, the Jazz were poised to win but faltered as Booker sank two crucial three-pointers, forcing overtime. A timely running bank shot from Keyonte George with 40 seconds left in OT broke the tie, and Markkanen sealed the game with two clutch free throws at 1.9 seconds remaining.
Fans are buzzing about this game as it marks a significant milestone for the Jazz, who had gone 27 years and 203 days without a regular season player scoring 50 points, the fourth-longest span in NBA history. This does not include playoff performances, as Donovan Mitchell had two 50-point games during the Orlando bubble.
As the Jazz prepare for their next matchup, all eyes will be on Lauri Markkanen to see if he can replicate this stunning performance. The excitement is palpable, and fans are eager to share this thrilling moment in Jazz history.
Stay tuned for more updates as this season progresses. The Jazz are proving to be a force to reckon with in the NBA, and Markkanen’s record-breaking night is just the beginning.
