In a thrilling showdown, the San Antonio Spurs triumphed over the Utah Jazz with a score of 126-109 on January 22, 2026. This match took place in Salt Lake City, showcasing some impressive performances from key players. De’Aaron Fox was outstanding, netting 31 points and shooting an incredible 10 for 13 from the field, including six shots from beyond the arc. Victor Wembanyama also shined, contributing significantly with 26 points and 13 rebounds, along with five blocks. This performance came as a welcome rebound after his previous game where he struggled with a 5-of-21 shooting record in a loss against the Houston Rockets.
Adding to the Spurs' success, Keldon Johnson scored 21 points, while Stephon Castle had a commendable game with 16 points, complemented by eight assists and seven rebounds. With this victory, the Spurs have now won four out of their last five games, demonstrating strong form as they continue their season.
On the opposing side, the Jazz saw Jusuf Nurkic achieve a remarkable feat, recording his second consecutive triple-double with 17 points, 14 assists, and 11 rebounds. This not only marked the third triple-double of his career but also made him the first Jazz player to accomplish back-to-back triple-doubles since the legendary Pete Maravich in January 1975. Nurkic's impressive assist total was largely due to his ability to find teammates with back-door passes, leading to several easy baskets, though the team's defense ultimately faltered.
Despite the efforts of Ace Bailey, who set a personal best with 25 points, and Keyonte George contributing 23 points, neither player scored in the critical fourth quarter. This lapse allowed the Spurs to finish strong, launching a decisive 27-10 run to secure the win and leave the Jazz with five losses in their last six games.
The Spurs exhibited great shooting accuracy, hitting 50.6% of their shots overall and 41.9% from three-point range. They also dominated in fast-break opportunities, outscoring the Jazz 32-10 in that category. The Jazz have struggled defensively this season, allowing an average of 127.3 points per game, the highest in the league.
The first quarter ended evenly at 31 points each, but the Spurs quickly gained momentum in the second quarter, executing a 17-2 run within the first few minutes. Julian Champagnie capped off the surge with his fourth three-pointer of the half.
Although the Jazz managed to tie the game at 99, the Spurs responded decisively, scoring ten unanswered points, culminating in a 3-pointer from Fox, which pushed their lead to 109-99 with just under seven minutes left.
The Jazz's situation has been further complicated by the absence of Lauri Markkanen, who has been sidelined due to a lengthy illness, leaving the team with a dismal 1-11 record without him.
Looking ahead, the Spurs will be hosting the New Orleans Pelicans on Sunday, while the Jazz will face the Miami Heat at home on Saturday.
