Timberwolves vs Jazz: Keyonte George Drops 43 as Utah Wins 127–122
The Utah Jazz closed strong in the fourth quarter to edge the Minnesota Timberwolves 127–122, turning a tight, back-and-forth contest into a statement win at home.
Minnesota had multiple chances to seize control, but Utah’s shot-making and composure late — led by a sensational performance from Keyonte George — proved decisive. The win snapped a difficult stretch for the Jazz and showed they can still compete even while shorthanded.
Game Context and Significance
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Final Score: Jazz 127, Timberwolves 122
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Venue: Delta Center, Salt Lake City
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Milestone: Will Hardy earns his 100th career coaching win
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Notable: Utah’s first win this season without Lauri Markkanen
The game remained close throughout, with neither team able to build significant separation until the final minutes.
Keyonte George’s Breakout Performance
Keyonte George delivered the defining performance of Timberwolves vs Jazz, erupting for a career-high 43 points to lead all scorers.
George was unstoppable in the second half and especially in the fourth quarter:
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Knocked down tough pull-up jumpers
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Attacked downhill in pick-and-roll
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Finished through contact at the rim
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Hit momentum-shifting buckets whenever Minnesota threatened
His late scoring run repeatedly halted Timberwolves mini-surges and pushed Utah ahead for good, turning a tight game into a controlled finish.
Supporting Cast and Team Play
Utah received timely help around George despite missing its top scorer.
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Jusuf Nurkić contributed with physical interior play, rebounding, and playmaking from the high post
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The Jazz moved the ball effectively late, creating space for George to operate
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Defensive effort improved in the fourth quarter, forcing tougher Minnesota shots
Minnesota, meanwhile, stayed in striking distance behind strong performances from Anthony Edwards and other starters, but struggled to get critical stops down the stretch.
Fourth Quarter Difference
The closing minutes decided Timberwolves vs Jazz:
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Utah executed better offensively
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George controlled tempo and shot selection
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Minnesota’s defense couldn’t contain dribble penetration
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The Jazz converted key possessions into points
Those small margins proved decisive in a five-point game.
What This Result Means
For the Jazz
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Proof they can win without Markkanen
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Keyonte George emerges as a primary offensive engine
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Confidence boost during a challenging stretch
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Will Hardy’s 100th win reflects steady organizational growth
For the Timberwolves
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Missed opportunity in a winnable road game
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Defensive lapses late proved costly
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Closing execution remains an area to tighten
Final Word — Sportsphere24 Updates
Timberwolves vs Jazz will be remembered for Keyonte George’s 43-point explosion and Utah’s ability to close under pressure. It was a milestone night for the Jazz, combining individual brilliance with a meaningful team win.
For Minnesota, the loss stings — a reminder that in tight NBA games, late-game execution often makes the difference.