In a thrilling finish, John Collins delivered a clutch tiebreaking dunk with just 6.4 seconds remaining to secure the Utah Jazz’s first home victory of the season, a 115-113 win over the Dallas Mavericks on Thursday night.
Collins, who has been a key figure for the Jazz, finished the game with a season-high 28 points and added nine rebounds, leading his team to a hard-fought victory in front of a home crowd eager for a win.
Jordan Clarkson also contributed significantly to the Jazz’s effort, scoring 20 points. The victory was particularly sweet for Utah, who had struggled early in the season but showed resilience against a Mavericks team that was hot on their heels throughout the game.
On the other side, Luka Dončić was once again the star for Dallas, putting up a staggering 37 points, seven rebounds, and nine assists. He nearly willed his team to victory, but ultimately, the Mavericks fell just short. Quentin Grimes, filling in for the injured Kyrie Irving, added 15 points and five assists, while Klay Thompson also chipped in with 17 points, including a timely three-pointer in the final minute to tie the game.
Dallas had led at halftime and looked poised to extend their advantage in the third quarter, thanks to a hot start by Dončić, who knocked down six field goals. However, Utah mounted a serious challenge in the second half, thanks in part to a decisive 9-0 run triggered by back-to-back baskets from Dončić. Collins capped the rally with a tip-in layup, giving Utah a commanding 90-78 lead as the third quarter came to a close.
As the game progressed, the intensity escalated, and with the score tied in the final moments, it was Collins who delivered the decisive blow. After Thompson’s three-pointer tied the game at 113, Collins responded with a thunderous dunk that put Utah ahead for good. The Mavs had one final chance, but couldn’t convert, and the Jazz held on for the win.
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Takeaways from the Game
For the Mavericks, the absence of Kyrie Irving, who sat out due to a right shoulder sprain, was deeply felt. Irving’s scoring and playmaking ability were missed, especially in the closing moments when Dallas could have used a reliable second scorer to help carry the load alongside Dončić. Despite the setback, the Mavericks fought hard and showed resilience, with Dončić proving once again that he’s capable of carrying the team on his back.
On the other hand, the Jazz’s win highlighted a promising development for their team. Rookie Kyle Filipowski has been showing signs of becoming a reliable scoring option, a development that could bode well for Utah’s future. Over his last two games, Filipowski is averaging 16.0 points on an impressive 68.4% shooting. His confidence and shooting touch are becoming key assets for the Jazz moving forward.
Key Moments of the Game
The third quarter proved to be a pivotal stretch for Utah. With the Mavericks leading by one point at the 8:30 mark of the period, the Jazz erupted, scoring on six consecutive possessions. Lauri Markkanen, the Jazz’s All-Star forward, was particularly instrumental in this run, scoring three of those baskets himself, including a beautiful step-back three-pointer that helped give Utah an 81-73 lead. This stretch was crucial in shifting the momentum in favor of the Jazz.
Fast Break Points: A Crucial Stat
One of the most notable stats from the game was Utah’s 20 fast-break points. The Jazz’s ability to capitalize on fast breaks was a key factor in their win, as it allowed them to build early leads and apply pressure on the Mavericks’ defense. This up-tempo style has been a hallmark of Utah’s offense this season, and it was on full display in their win.
Looking Ahead
With the win, Utah improves their home record, but they will now face a tough test as they hit the road to Sacramento on Saturday night. The Kings have been strong this season, and the Jazz will need to carry the momentum from this victory into that matchup.
As for Dallas, they will return home to host the San Antonio Spurs on Saturday. While the loss was tough, the Mavericks will look to regroup and build on the strong performances from their star players. With Irving expected to return soon, Dallas will be eager to get back to their winning ways.
In the end, this game was a thrilling showcase of talent and heart, with both teams battling until the final buzzer. Collins’ clutch dunk and the Jazz’s timely run in the third quarter were enough to lift Utah to their first home victory, and the win will undoubtedly provide them with confidence as the season continues.