Last night I went to another Jazz game with my friend Angela and it was one of the most exciting games I've been to in a really long time! I specifically picked the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder because, when I had season tickets many years ago, the Thunder and the Jazz had a great rivalry because of Deron Williams and Chris Paul. The current Jazz and Thunder teams are very evenly matched so I was expecting a close game but the final minutes were absolutely crazy! The Jazz took an early lead but the score went back and forth until the Thunder went on a 9-0 run to end the half ahead 55-46. The Jazz had a lot of turnovers, struggled defensively under the net, and missed a lot of three point shots but they never gave up. They battled back at the beginning of the second half with the help of Jordan Clarkson, who scored or assisted on the first six baskets, to come within two but the Thunder went on another run to end the third quarter 78-86. The fourth quarter was the Lauri Markkanen show because he contributed 18 points, including a sweet slam dunk and a really pretty three point jump shot! Walker Kessler got a nice block and putback layup to tie the Thunder 106-106 which sent the game into overtime (and sent the crowd into hysterics). The score went back and forth in overtime with three point shots from Kelly Olynyk (whenever he does anything noteworthy Angela reminds me that he is Canadian), Lauri Markkanen, and Jordan Clarkson! The score was 119-117 in favor of the Thunder with 4.6 seconds left when Markkanen was fouled on a three point shot. He then made all three foul shots to pull ahead 120-119 and the crowd erupted! It was so thrilling to be a part of it! With only a few seconds remaining Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who ended the game with 39 points, missed a jump shot to give the Jazz the win! Even though I had a hard time breathing during the final minutes I had to much fun at this game and I'm so glad that Angela keeps inviting me!
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