It’s Good to be Back
Derrick Favors got his first taste of victory since returning after a 16-game absence, and nobody is happier for his return to the court than he is.
"I just went for it. I just went out there and tested my back. Tried to be explosive. Tried to do different moves in the post and see what I can do. It felt good, so continue from there."
"He scored 16 points and four rebounds and said he's feeling great.
“I feel good after this one – no pain, no stiffness. I feel good.”
Rising Stars Amongst Us
In case you missed it, our own Raul Neto and Rodney Hood have been selected to play in the BBVA Compass Rising Stars Challenge during the upcoming NBA All-Star Weekend. Neto will join the World Team and Rodney Hood will suit up for the U.S. Team. Given his red hot form of late, Hood’s game is accelerating with every game.
“Just being confident. Trusting the work that I’ve put in. Waking up early on gameday with the assistant coaches. It feels good. Just got to keep going."
AB Update
Before the Jazz and Hornets tipped off, injured guard Alec Burks was seen in his usual spot with a basketball in his hand. No longer sporting the scooter he used to navigate around the arena, he’s now also without the moon boot. Want more AB updates and other behind-the-scenes content? Follow us on Snapchat at UtahJazzNBA.
Everyone Loves Sloan
In a recent CBS article, Detroit Pistons coach Stan Van Gundy spoke of meeting Jerry Sloan after the game Monday night at Vivint Smart Home Arena. Here’s an excerpt, via Zach Harper of CBS Sports:
Following a 95-92 victory over the Jazz, Van Gundy was walking from the locker room into the tunnel to do his postgame presser with the media. Right before he exited the locker room, a Pistons official caught former Jazz coach Jerry Sloan walking through to the exit. He stopped him and wondered if he'd like to say hello to Stan. Van Gundy walked out of the locker room door and was taken aback by the presence of the Hall of Fame coach. They chatted for a couple minutes, said their goodbyes, and Van Gundy walked to the scrum beaming.
"That's a bigger thrill than the win right there," Van Gundy admitted. "That's one of the all-time greats there. That's fun. I'm not in awe very often, but I am around him."
Birthday Bear!
Our favorite mascot, Jazz Bear, had a birthday and it was a blast! Not only did the Jazz get a win, but Bear got to celebrate with a handful of his other mascot buddies.
About Friday night!
Friday night (when the Jazz host the Minnesota Timberwolves) is Social Media Night! What does that mean for you? Well, it’s the chance for fans to take a selfie with Alec Burks! Beginning at 5:30 p.m we will launch a social media scavenger hunt. To participate just follow the Jazz Snapchat account (utahjazznba), which will give out four clues to locations around the arena.
Keep an eye out for more prize details right here, it’s gonna be a fun one!