In an electrifying game on October 27, 2025, Lauri Markkanen made history as the first Utah Jazz player to score over 50 points in nearly 27 years. The Jazz overcame the Phoenix Suns 138-134 thanks to Markkanen’s impressive 51-point performance.
Markkanen Shines in Historic Game
Markkanen’s career-high 51 points came during a thrilling overtime match. This marked the first time a Jazz player reached the 50-point threshold since Karl Malone scored 56 against the Golden State Warriors on April 7, 1998. Since that game, the franchise had played 2,155 regular-season matches without another player achieving this feat.
Key Game Statistics
- Final Score: Jazz 138, Suns 134
- Points by Lauri Markkanen: 51
- Free Throws Made: 17 (tied for the most without a miss in Jazz history)
- Rebounds: 14
- Three-Pointers: 5 made
- Minutes Played: 45
Historical Context
Markkanen’s scoring outburst not only heroically clinched the victory but also placed him among the elite. He became the 97th player in NBA history to surpass the 50-point milestone. His achievement ended a staggering gap of 27 years and 203 days between 50-point games for the Jazz, ranking as the fourth-longest gap in NBA history.
Player Reactions and Performance
Throughout the game, Markkanen faced intense defensive pressure but maintained focus. “As long as you’re mentally not tired, you can push through whatever you need to,” he shared. His teammate, Keyonte George, supported him by providing crucial assists, contributing 26 points and 10 assists overall.
Reflecting on his performance, Markkanen expressed a mix of triumph and reflection, wishing he had made a baseline jumper earlier in the game that would have brought him even closer to that 50-point mark earlier. Head Coach Will Hardy praised Markkanen’s heart and physicality, highlighting that he made several key shots when it mattered most.
This historic performance by Lauri Markkanen sets a new benchmark for the Utah Jazz and is a stepping stone for the team’s young roster as they aim for success this season.
