In a stunning fourth-quarter comeback, Collin Sexton and an undermanned Utah Jazz (5-11) squad orchestrated a 105-100 victory against the New Orleans Pelicans (9-8), ending the Pelicans’ three-game winning streak.
Despite missing top scorers Lauri Markkanen and Jordan Clarkson, the Jazz showcased resilience, led by Sexton’s clutch performance with 10 of his 16 points coming in the final quarter.
Rookie Keyonte George contributed 15 points, and Kelly Olynyk added 13, highlighting the team’s depth in the absence of key players.
The Pelicans opted to rest star forward Zion Williamson, who had been averaging an impressive 27.3 points in the previous four games, but struggled without his scoring prowess.
Simone Fontecchio’s driving layup secured a crucial 103-95 lead for the Jazz with 1:11 remaining, ultimately sealing the victory.
Despite a last-minute rally attempt by the Pelicans, a crucial travel violation by Dyson Daniels and two free throws from George with 5.7 seconds left secured the Jazz’s triumph.
Facing fatigue from a late Friday night game against the Clippers, the Pelicans struggled as the Jazz, after committing 24 turnovers, found their offensive rhythm in the fourth quarter.
Choosing to double-team Brandon Ingram, who finished with 26 points, the Jazz disrupted the Pelicans’ offensive flow, preventing other players from stepping up.
