Markkanen leads Jazz to massive 152-128 win over Pacers

The Utah Jazz recorded one of their most impressive performances of the season by scoring 152 points in a high-energy 152-128 win over the Indiana Pacers in Salt Lake City on Tuesday night. The game was filled with non-stop action, accurate shooting, and a strong team effort that ended Utah’s three-game losing streak.

Lauri Markkanen was the star of the night, leading Utah’s scoring with 35 points. He made 13 of his 19 shots and hit 5 of 7 from beyond the arc. His shooting display kept the crowd on its feet and gave the Jazz the rhythm they needed to stay ahead for most of the game. Markkanen showed his versatility by scoring both inside and from long range, making it nearly impossible for the Pacers to slow him down.

While Markkanen led the offense, the Jazz had a total team effort with eight players scoring in double figures. Svi Mykhailiuk and rookie Ace Bailey both added 20 points each, contributing to the balanced attack. Utah’s offense flowed smoothly, with quick passes and confident shooting. This was a big improvement after their recent three-game skid.

The 152 points scored by Utah became the fourth-highest total in franchise history. Their all-time best scoring records include 154 points, achieved twice — once against Sacramento in April 2021 and again in overtime against Detroit in January 2023. The Jazz also once scored 153 points back in April 1978 when they were still known as the New Orleans Jazz.

Indiana started the game strongly, opening with a 10-0 run. Pascal Siakam and Andrew Nembhard led the early scoring charge. Siakam finished the night with 27 points, while Nembhard added 25. However, their early energy didn’t last as the Jazz quickly found their rhythm and began to dominate both offensively and defensively.

T.J. McConnell made his season debut for the Pacers in this game. He entered the match midway through the first quarter and immediately made an impact, scoring 12 points in just 11 first-half minutes. His aggressive play and leadership off the bench were positives for Indiana despite the loss.

After trailing early, the Jazz made a comeback late in the first quarter. Brice Sensabaugh hit a crucial three-pointer in the final minute of the quarter to give Utah their first lead at 38-34. The momentum shifted completely in the second quarter when Ace Bailey sparked a 12-0 run with a three-pointer followed by a powerful dunk. That run gave the Jazz total control, turning a close game into a one-sided contest.

Ace Bailey, the 19-year-old rookie, showed why the Jazz are excited about his potential. He scored 12 points in the second quarter alone, using his athleticism and confidence to energize the team. His sharp shooting and aggressive drives helped Utah extend their lead to 70-57 at halftime.

Indiana’s offense slowed dramatically in the second quarter. They were outrebounded 18-10 and shot only 9 of 28 from the field. Their three-point shooting also struggled, making just 2 of 13 attempts. These missed opportunities allowed Utah to grow its advantage and enter the second half with complete control of the game.

Markkanen continued his scoring show in the third quarter, starting the second half with eight quick points. He finished the quarter with 17 points on perfect shooting, making every shot he attempted. Utah’s team scored 44 points in the quarter, connecting on an impressive 16 of 22 shots. By the end of the third, the Jazz had built a comfortable 26-point lead.

The Jazz opened the final quarter with a three-pointer from Walter Clayton Jr., pushing the score to 117-91. From there, the outcome was clear. Utah maintained their fast pace and energy until the end, keeping the Pacers from any comeback attempts. The crowd celebrated as the Jazz secured one of their most exciting home wins of the season.

This victory gave Utah a strong confidence boost after losing three consecutive games. The combination of Markkanen’s leadership, Bailey’s youthful energy, and the overall team effort was the perfect recipe for success. The Jazz will hope to continue this form in their upcoming games as they climb back up the Western Conference standings.

The 152-128 victory showcased the Jazz’s potential when their offense clicks. Every player contributed, and the teamwork was visible throughout the night. With Markkanen leading the way and the younger players stepping up, Utah proved they can compete with any team when they play with this level of energy and accuracy.