Sabonis Secures Last-Second Win for Kings Over Jazz
SACRAMENTO, CA – October 26, 2024 – Domantas Sabonis delivered a clutch play in the final seconds, lifting the Sacramento Kings to a 105-104 victory over the Utah Jazz at the Golden 1 Center. The win improves Sacramento’s record to 1-1, while Utah falls to 1-1.
This hard-fought contest underscores the Kings’ ambition to build on last season’s progress in a competitive Western Conference.A victory against a fellow playoff hopeful like the Jazz provides early momentum and validates the team’s offseason acquisitions, including Zach LaVine. The outcome also highlights Sabonis’s continued importance as a key player capable of taking over in critical moments.
The game remained tightly contested throughout, with both teams trading leads. After building a lead for much of the game, the Kings found themselves trailing late in the fourth quarter. Keyonte George’s two-point shot and a subsequent free throw by Lauri Markkanen gave the Jazz a narrow advantage with under a minute remaining.
Facing defeat, the Kings entrusted the ball to Malik Monk, whose driving attempt missed the mark. However, Sabonis was positioned perfectly for the offensive rebound, securing the ball and converting a contested layup while drawing a foul. Though he missed the ensuing free throw, the Jazz were unable to capitalize. Keyonte George’s last-second attempt fell short, sealing the win for Sacramento.
Sabonis finished with 12 points (6-of-8 from the field), 12 rebounds, and one assist in 36 minutes of play. Zach LaVine lead all scorers with 31 points, shooting 6-of-9 from two-point range, 4-of-9 from three, and a perfect 7-of-7 from the free-throw line. Malik Monk added 20 points, and Dennis Schroder contributed 17.
Lauri Markkanen paced the jazz with 33 points and 4 rebounds, while Keyonte George added 18 and Brice Sensabaugh contributed 15.
Kings Scoring: Zach LaVine 31, Malik Monk 20, Dennis Schroder 17.
Jazz Scoring: Lauri Markkanen 33,Keyonte George 18,Brice Sensabaugh 15.
