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Ryan Kostecka

When Jason Preston signed a two-way contract with the Jazz on January 9, it was expected that the 24-year-old was going to spend the majority of his time in the G-League with the Salt Lake City Stars.&nbsp;

At the time, it was an ideal pairing to put Preston—one of the G-League’s best point guards and premier assists men—alongside Utah’s rookie duo of Taylor Hendricks and Brice Sensabaugh. Both good players in their own right and former first round picks, Hendricks and Sensabaugh were not ready to create their own offense. Instead, the Stars needed a setup man to help get them into their spots so they can thrive.&nbsp;

After averaging 12.4 points, 8.6 assists, and 7.9 rebounds in 31.0 minutes for the Memphis Hustle during the early parts of the season, Preston was a revelation for the Stars. He averaged 16.9 points, 9.9 assists, and 9.4 rebounds in 35.2 minutes per game with a 50/45/88 slash line with the Stars

Not only did he lead the G-League in triple doubles since joining the Stars, Preston’s performance earned him All-NBA G-League First Team honors.&nbsp;

Preston got the call up to the Jazz late in the season when injuries ravaged their roster, playing in seven games while averaging 10.2 minutes per game. His impact was felt from a playmaking perspective as he helped Utah’s offense succeed in March/April. His best game came in a loss to the Clippers on April 5 when he finished with six points, six assists, and four rebounds in 17 minutes. He also dropped five assists and four rebounds against Minnesota on March 16.

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One of the G-League's Premier Assists Men, Preston Showed his Skills Translate to the NBA

Micah Potter takes a grounded approach to life in professional basketball. Potter knew that entering this year, he would likely spend most of his time in the G-League with the Salt Lake City Stars — yet that didn't bother him. He took it as a chance to get extended minutes against other professionals, a chance for his game to grow, and most importantly, a chance to stay ready for when his time came.&nbsp;

As injuries ravaged Utah's depth late in the season, head coach Will Hardy called on Potter to help fill out the roster and earn legitimate NBA minutes. Potter responded with some of the best basketball of his career, setting multiple career highs in the process and ending the year with some momentum.

In 16 games, Potter averaged 3.3 points and 2.7 rebounds in 11.6 minutes per game. He posted double digits in two games, including a career-high 11 points in Utah's victory over Atlanta on March 15. He also ended the year strong, finishing with 10 points, eight rebounds, and two blocks in a career-high 21 minutes.

"I've been waiting around for it. . … It's been a lot of fun," Potter said. "Obviously, I'm very thankful for the opportunity. I have a great surrounding group around me to keep me prepared, whether it's the G-League or whether it's up with the Jazz. We have a great staff, a great developmental staff."

After three seasons in the NBA/G-League, Potter has developed a niche as a big man capable of spreading the floor. In the NBA, he shot 47.5% from the floor and 42.9% from beyond the arc. In the G-League, Potter shot 50.8% from the floor and 37.3% from three (5.1 attempts per game).&nbsp;

"I think that's my biggest strength," Potter said of his ability to stretch the floor. "The ability to shoot the ball, that's something I've really tried to hone in on since becoming a pro is getting off threes in different situations and making sure your footwork is correct."

More than anything, Potter's extended run late in the season was vital for his development. It's one thing to practice against NBA players, but to get actual game experience with everything on the line is a part of the evolution process that can't be recreated.&nbsp;

"It's absolutely necessary in order to grow, really at all," Hardy said. "There's things that you can watch on film, but there's nothing like a game. And I think it also settles you down a little bit, knowing that one mistake, two mistakes, are not the end of your opportunity. … It allows you to play with a little bit less anxiety, so I think it's critical to get consistent minutes."

Potter is a restricted free agent next season.

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"Biggest Strength" — Potter's Long Range Shooting Key to his Performance with the Jazz

A midseason acquisition in February as part of a trade between the Jazz and Raptors, Kira Lewis Jr. knew he was joining a team with a crowded backcourt. Utah was armed with starters Keyonte George and Collin Sexton, reserves Jordan Clarkson and Kris Dunn, and Talen Horton-Tucker waiting in the wings when called upon.&nbsp;

With that in mind, Lewis Jr. took a unique approach to his time with the Jazz. Rather than fret over a lack of playing time, he spent the ensuing two months acclimating himself to the franchise while focusing on what he needed to do to improve. He didn’t waste his time in Utah, getting better every day by treating practices as his games.

In 12 games with the Jazz, Lewis Jr. averaged just 3.3 points and 1.6 assists in 9.9 minutes per game. Used mostly as a late-minutes reserve, he got his chance late in the season when injuries took their toll on the roster. He dropped 12 points, five rebounds, and four assists in a loss to Houston on March 23, shooting 4-of-9 from the field and 3-for-4 from the free-throw line.

In the season finale, Lewis Jr. finished with a season-high 13 points on 6-of-12 shooting. He added three rebounds, three assists, and one steal in the 123-116 loss to Golden State.&nbsp;

Currently wrapping up the final year of a four-year contract, Lewis. Jr is now a restricted free agent — set with a $7.9-million qualifying offer. It’s unknown if the Jazz will pick up the offer – but they do have the option of keeping him around this offseason to get an extended look at him during Summer League before making a final decision.

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Acquired Via Trade in February, Lewis Jr. Made the Most of his Time in Utah

When the 2022-23 NBA season ended, Luka Šamanić felt good about what had transpired over the past month.&nbsp;

After signing with the Jazz as a midseason acquisition, he was reunited with head coach Will Hardy, whom he knew from his time in San Antonio and Boston. Having that previous relationship allowed Šamanić to end the year on a high note — including a career-high 23-point performance against Denver — and take some much-needed momentum into the offseason.&nbsp;

A summer in Utah’s program allowed Šamanić to enter this year with a much better mindset, one that was more focused on getting better and helping the team win rather than sulking about a lack of playing time or being in the G-League. That change in mentality led the way for the best season of his four-year career, proving that the handwork and deception to his craft showed he belongs in the NBA.

In a career-high 43 games played (seven starts), Šamanić averaged 4.1 points and 2.4 rebounds per game. Carving out a role within the Jazz was the real success after grinding for many years. He ended the season with four consecutive double-digit scoring games, including his first career double-double (15 points, 10 rebounds) on April 9 against the defending champs.&nbsp;

“It’s the only way to stay professional. … You’ve got to work because you never know when you’re gonna play,” Šamanić said. “One thing I’ve learned throughout this is that you’ve got to stay working, really even harder when you don’t play. You see all these other guys play, and then you’ve got to come in the next day and work even harder. … But if you can channel that and use it as a motivation, it can be a good thing.”

Knowing Šamanić since the Spurs drafted him in 2019, Hardy was able to give a more profound and unique take on Šamanić’s growth since those days five years ago.&nbsp;

“He’s 180 degrees different in his approach,” Hardy said. “I think Luka would be the first person to tell you he didn’t handle it great. … His youth sort of showed, and he was a little immature at times. He’s never been a bad dude. He’s never been somebody that you didn’t want to coach. … But I think he didn’t deal with adversity as well as he does now.”

An unrestricted free agent heading into next year, Šamanić can sign with any team.

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"Stay Working" — Šamanić's Growth led to Expanded Role with the Jazz

Johnny Juzang knew his time was coming.&nbsp;

After spending most of the year in the G-League with the Salt Lake City Stars, Juzang knew he would be called up to the Jazz at the end of the year as injuries took their toll on the roster. Instead of being nervous for those moments, Juzang felt oddly at peace.&nbsp;

The same scenario played out during his rookie season, and Juzang found himself in the NBA for the year's final two months. In 18 games, he averaged just under 13 minutes a game and finished in double-digit scoring three times. Not that he was afraid of the moment, but Juzang remembers when he was just trying to get his feet wet and not make mistakes.&nbsp;

With the same situation playing out again this past March, Juzang was going to make the most of it. He was ready for the challenges and rigors of the league, knowing that he could play in the NBA and make a difference.&nbsp;

Juzang was one of Utah's brightest spots over the season's final two months. Over his final 17 games, he averaged 8.5 points on 43.8% shooting from three. He scored double figures in six games, including knocking down 2+ threes in 10 games. He also averaged 21.4 minutes per game, including five starts.

However, Juzang will always remember April 7, the day he showed the rest of the NBA that he had what it takes to compete at this level.&nbsp;

Despite Utah's 118-110 loss to Golden State, Juzang finished with 27 points on 7-of-8 from beyond the arc — both career highs. He shot 9-of-12 from the field and 2-for-3 from the free throw line, adding two rebounds and one assist. He also played a career-high 33 minutes.&nbsp;

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Ready for the Challenge, Juzang Shined Late in the Season When Called Upon

Jeremy Rincon

“All-In”, “Community Obsessed”, and “One Team” are just a few of the values that are held by the Utah Jazz organization. These values go beyond basketball. They extend beyond the walls of Delta Center. After all, they are the Utah Jazz.&nbsp;

The organization is “all-in” on being a part of and giving back to the community. Every fan is a team member, and as one team, we all make our community better.&nbsp;

Together with Utah Jazz partner and local business, Awardco, the two organizations have recognized five individuals who have gone above and beyond in their community. These people were surprised by members of the Utah Jazz at Delta Center, recognized during a home game on the Delta Center video board, and gifted Jazz apparel.&nbsp;

Introducing the 2023-24 Utah Jazz and Awardco “Recognize the Good” recipients:

Jessica Moran is a teacher in the Davis School District. Recognizing the rise of mental health concerns, she took it upon herself to enroll in courses and get certifications to learn how to help. Since then, she has developed a free, multi-week program for her community. Jessica and her program have become an invaluable resource for local youth and looks to expand her reach and impact.

Lisa Feist is the founder of Dollies 4 Doctors, a nonprofit that provides handmade dollies to hospitals and therapy centers to provide comfort to children who are undergoing treatment or procedures. The custom dolls allow doctors to bandage, stitch, or mark places where the children are being treated–giving them a companion during their treatment.&nbsp;

Matt Bowen is the founder of the Utah Chapter of Wheelchair Lacrosse, the first pick-up style of play for wheelchair users in Utah. Driven by his love for lacrosse, Matt has increased awareness for adaptive sports and given many people with disabilities the opportunity to feel safe and welcome in sports. He provides resources to bring people together in the community through free monthly wheelchair lacrosse clinics and events.&nbsp;

Katie Jensen is the co-founder and director of the English Language Center in Cache Valley. Katie and the ELC provide English, life skills, and US citizenship preparation classes to refugees and immigrants. Affectionately known as “Mama Katie”, she supports human rights and believes that everybody has the right to dignity and respect.&nbsp;

Feli Ika is the Polynesian Club advisor at Lone Peak High School where she teaches special ed. and acts as an assistant girls basketball coach. She started the Polynesian Club to create a nurturing and empowering environment for students to explore and embrace Polynesian culture. Through engaging workshops, events, service opportunities, and activities, she strives to foster a sense of belonging among students, empowering them to embrace their heritage while also embracing their potential as future leaders.

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Utah Jazz and Awardco Celebrate “Recognize the Good’ Program and Awardees

Talen Horton-Tucker had high hopes coming into this season.

He ended the 2022-23 season on a high note, averaging 18.1 points, 6.0 assists, and 5.1 rebounds per game over the season's final two months. That propelled him into a summer where he entered training camp in the best shape of his life. He used that time to solidify himself as Utah's starting point guard entering the year, setting high expectations.&nbsp;

After playing some of the better basketball of his career in December, an injury forced him out of the lineup. In that time, Utah went on a hot streak, winning 14 of 18 games and climbing back into postseason contention. By the time Horton-Tucker was healthy enough to return, head coach Will Hardy had settled on a rotation that had started to establish chemistry.&nbsp;

"Going into training camp, I felt really good," he said. "I felt like I had a great summer and then a great training camp. Probably around December, the month of December was pretty good. I was playing almost the best stretch of basketball that I've played in my career so far, but then I got hurt and was in and out of the lineup after that. … But those were the two high points for sure."

Still, Horton-Tucker averaged 16.3 points, 4.6 assists, 2.1 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game during nine games in December. Not only did he post double-digit scoring in every game, he also dropped a season-high 11 assists against Cleveland on Dec. 20.

Although he spent the rest of the season in and out of the rotation, Horton-Tucker never sulked. He stayed ready for whenever his name was called, often answering the call when needed — and that call came at the end of the year.&nbsp;

He finished the season strong, averaging 16.2 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 2.4 assists over the final six games of the year. Most impressively, he shot 43.5% from the field and 37.0% from three, coming on over five attempts per game. For the year, Horton-Tucker averaged 10.1 points per game, his third consecutive season posting double-digit scoring. He also averaged 3.5 assists and 2.4 rebounds while shooting a career-high 33.0% from three.

"It was pretty up and down for me," Horton-Tucker said. "I feel like it was a great experience, honestly. … To go through this type of season, for my development, it was more mental for me. Now I try to figure out different things, things like that. … Always trying to learn every aspect about me and the game."

Horton-Tucker didn't shy away when asked about the difficulties he faced this season. From being in the rotation to being out of it to wondering what his role would be daily, he admitted it was difficult. More than anything, though, it taught him a lot about himself and how strong he really is.&nbsp;

"I learned that just going through any circumstance that I could still be myself. … Just learning how mentally strong I am," he said. The season was more like I'm just waiting to see if my number is called. … I didn't really know too much. You could kind of just tell sometimes by who was going in, that's really what it is. You're an NBA player so you're supposed to adjust to every situation, I wouldn't say it was hard. … But it was obviously different."

Horton-Tucker will become an unrestricted free agent this summer.

"I haven't really thought too much into it yet fully, just trying to finish things the right way because that's the best thing I can do for myself," he said. "When that time comes, I feel like I have a good team setup. … I got the right people around to handle that for me. Hopefully, something happens that's pretty good.

Instead of waiting to see what will transpire, Horton-Tucker is back to his regular summer routine.

"I pretty much take a week or two off after the season just to, you know, unravel. … Then I ramp it back up," he said. Usually, I'll be back playing or doing something with basketball in early May. Pretty much with the summer that's almost five months, you gotta do it smartly. … I play a lot, so being able to play pick-up and get up and down is something that is good for me and my game."&nbsp;

"I'll probably be in LA and back home in Chicago, be with family."

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"Great Experience" — Horton-Tucker Shows Mental Fortitude in Up and Down Season

Entering the season, the Jazz were loaded with talent in the frontcourt.&nbsp;

Lauri Markkanen was the All-Star, Walker Kessler was coming off an all-rookie campaign, John Collins was the high-flying new addition, and Kelly Olynyk was the crafty and wily veteran. That sort of talent allowed Utah to play two big men at all times and match up with different personnel depending on what they wanted to accomplish.&nbsp;

Yet, despite the talent up top, one thing was still missing. Utah needed a bruiser, a big man who prides himself on doing the dirty work. One who sets screens like concrete, crashes the boards with ferocity, and relishes banging around down low with the other bigs in the league.&nbsp;

Yurtseven, one of the team’s free agent signings last offseason, brought a unique set of skills to the Jazz. Despite limited playing time, he was always prepared and stepped up when needed. His contributions were particularly notable at the start of the season during Kessler’s injury and later in the season when injuries significantly affected the team.

He ended the year averaging 4.6 points and 4.3 rebounds in 11.4 minutes per game, playing in 48 games with 12 starts.&nbsp;

With Kessler going down less than a month into the season, Utah needed an answer — and Yurtseven answered the call. From games played Nov. 21 through Dec. 14, Yurtseven played double-digit minutes in 10 of the 11 games, where he dropped 18 points against the Lakers and 15 rebounds against the Blazers.&nbsp;

As Utah got healthy, Yurtseven returned to the bench for most of the season. But the injury bug bit hard in March and April, and Yurtseven was called upon again.

After dropping three double-digit scoring games in March, Yurtseven played the best basketball of the season in April. In seven games, he averaged 10.9 points, 9.1 rebounds, and 1.4 assists in 24.1 minutes per game — he scored double digits in five games, including a season-high 20 points against the Nuggets. He also had three games of double-digit rebounds, culminating in a career-high 18 boards against the Warriors in the season finale.

He was particularly impressive during Utah’s 118-113 win over Portland on Dec. 2. Yurtseven took over in overtime when his putback dunk gave Utah a two-point lead with just over a minute to play. He then sealed the victory with a game-saving block of Malcolm Brogdon in the final 10 seconds.&nbsp;

Still just 26, Yurtseven is signed with the Jazz for the upcoming season on a non-guaranteed contract. It will become fully guaranteed on Jan. 10, 2025.&nbsp;

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After Joining the Jazz Last Summer, Yurtseven was Always Ready When Called Upon

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