Jrue Holiday’s decisive free throws in the closing seconds led the Portland Trail Blazers to a narrow 136-134 victory against the Utah Jazz on October 29, 2025. Holiday finished the game with 27 points and eight assists, playing a pivotal role in securing the Blazers’ second consecutive road win.
The contest, held in Salt Lake City, showcased a high-scoring affair where the Blazers capitalized on the Jazz’s turnovers and demonstrated impressive three-point shooting. Lauri Markkanen spearheaded the Jazz’s efforts with 32 points, but it was not enough to overcome Portland’s resilience.
Portland’s ability to exploit Utah’s mistakes was evident, as they scored 27 points off 21 turnovers. Additionally, the Blazers’ strong perimeter shooting proved crucial, particularly in the first half, where they connected on 14 of 29 attempts from beyond the arc. Sharpe, Grant, and Duop Reath each made three triples before halftime, contributing to a rally that saw Portland recover from an early deficit.
Trailing 122-100 with just over ten minutes remaining, the Jazz launched a spirited comeback, fueled by a 16-2 run that brought the game within reach. Keyonte George and Cody Williams played significant roles in this resurgence, combining for multiple baskets. As the clock ticked down, Utah managed to trim Portland’s lead to 134-133 with only 7.7 seconds left.
In a tense finish, Holiday stepped to the free-throw line and delivered flawlessly, sinking all four attempts and sealing the victory for the Blazers. His performance was instrumental not only in the game’s outcome but also in providing a boost for a team navigating challenges off the court, including coach Chauncey Billups’ recent leave due to legal issues related to gambling.
The Blazers, now 3-1 in the season, showcased their depth with Deni Avdija contributing 19 points and nine rebounds, while both Shaedon Sharpe and Jerami Grant added 18 points each. This balanced scoring was essential in maintaining the lead throughout the match, especially after Portland erupted for 46 points in the second quarter alone, overcoming a 43-point first quarter by Utah.
As the Jazz absorbed their first home loss of the season, they were left to reflect on missed opportunities. Walker Kessler’s 18 points and 12 rebounds and Keyonte George’s 29 points and eight assists highlighted their competitive spirit, but the team’s inability to secure the win will be a focal point moving forward.
The intense matchup not only showcased the talent on display but also underscored the ongoing challenges faced by the Blazers. As they look to build on this victory, the resilience demonstrated against the Jazz will be crucial in the weeks ahead.
