BREAKING: Lauri Markkanen just made history by scoring a career-high 51 points in a thrilling overtime victory as the Utah Jazz defeated the Phoenix Suns 138-134 on October 30, 2023. This monumental achievement marks the first time a Jazz player has scored 50 or more points in a regular-season game since Karl Malone in 1998.
Markkanen’s extraordinary performance included 14 rebounds and a perfect 17-for-17 from the free-throw line, tying the franchise record for most free throws made without a miss. He also became the first player in Jazz history to achieve 50 points, 10 rebounds, and 5 made 3-pointers in a single game.
The game was filled with drama as the Jazz nearly let a commanding lead slip away, holding a 122-115 advantage with just 23 seconds left in regulation. However, the Suns rallied, with Devin Booker hitting two clutch 3-pointers to tie the game, forcing overtime. In the extra period, Markkanen scored seven points, including two key free throws with only 1.9 seconds remaining to seal the win.
Markkanen’s previous career-best was 49 points, achieved on January 5, 2023. His scoring spree makes it the highest point total by a Jazz player since Malone’s legendary 56-point game against Golden State on April 7, 1998. The Jazz have now ended a staggering 27 years and 203 days without a regular-season 50-point game, ranking as the fourth-longest drought in NBA history.
In addition to Markkanen’s standout performance, Keyonte George contributed significantly with 26 points and 10 assists, while Walker Kessler added 25 points and 11 rebounds. The Jazz, who were projected to struggle this season, now hold a 2-1 record, just shy of being undefeated after a narrow loss to Sacramento.
On the other side, the Suns dropped to 1-3, marking their third consecutive defeat. Booker finished with 34 points after a strong second half, while Mark Williams returned from injury to score 25 points and grab 11 rebounds.
This exhilarating game underscores the emerging talent of Markkanen and the resilience of the Jazz. As the season progresses, fans will be keenly watching how this performance propels the team forward.
Next up: The Jazz aim to build on this momentum in their upcoming games, while the Suns seek to regroup and find their footing in the competitive Western Conference.
