UPDATE: In a stunning performance, Lauri Markkanen scored a career-high 51 points, leading the Utah Jazz to a thrilling 138-134 overtime victory against the Phoenix Suns on October 30, 2023. This marks the first time a Jazz player has reached the 50-point milestone in the regular season since Karl Malone in 1998.
Markkanen’s monumental night was crucial as the Jazz fought back after squandering a seven-point lead in the final 19 seconds of regulation. He scored seven points in the overtime period, along with grabbing 14 rebounds and making an impressive 17 of 17 free throws, tying the franchise record for free throws made without a miss.
This performance not only eclipsed his previous career-high of 49 points set earlier this year but also made him the first player in Jazz history to record 50 points, 10 rebounds, and 5 three-pointers in a single game.
The Jazz, who are projected to struggle this season, are now 2-1 after narrowly losing to the Sacramento Kings earlier. Keyonte George added 26 points and 10 assists, while Walker Kessler contributed 25 points and 11 rebounds.
The game took a dramatic turn late in regulation when the Jazz led 122-115 with just 23 seconds remaining. However, Suns star Devin Booker made two critical three-pointers, and a free throw rebound by Mark Williams forced overtime.
In the extra period, George hit a pivotal running bank shot with 40 seconds left, taking the lead, while Markkanen sealed the game with two clutch free throws 1.9 seconds before the final buzzer.
The Suns, now 1-3, have suffered three consecutive losses, facing challenges without key players Jalen Green (hamstring) and Dillon Brooks (groin). However, Mark Williams made a notable return, contributing 25 points and 11 rebounds.
As the Jazz continue to defy expectations, fans are left buzzing about Markkanen’s historic achievement, which snaps a staggering 27 years and 203 days between 50-point games in franchise history, the fourth-longest span in NBA history.
Stay tuned for more updates as the season unfolds. This electrifying performance by Markkanen is one for the history books and promises to keep the Jazz in the spotlight for the weeks to come.
