Sabonis’ Clutch Play Leads Kings to Thrilling Victory over Jazz

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Domantas Sabonis made a dramatic return to the court, scoring a clutch put-back basket with six seconds left to secure a 105-104 victory for the Sacramento Kings over the Utah Jazz on Friday night. This win marked the Kings’ first of the 2025-26 season.

Sabonis, who was cleared to play after recovering from a hamstring strain, finished the game with 12 points and 12 rebounds. His late-game heroics were crucial as the Kings came back from trailing 96-92 midway through the fourth quarter.

Zach LaVine led the Kings with 31 points, while Malik Monk added 20 points off the bench, contributing six three-pointers. The matchup was intense, with both teams showcasing their shooting skills; the Kings and Jazz combined for 27 three-pointers during the game.

The game had a wild finish. After LaVine’s fourth-quarter scoring surge helped lift the Kings, the Jazz responded. Lauri Markkanen, who had 33 points for Utah, was fouled late in the game and made a crucial free throw to temporarily put the Jazz in the lead.

However, Sabonis’ put-back followed by a missed free throw gave Sacramento the edge. The Kings’ defense held strong in the final moments, contesting a last-second shot from Jazz guard Keyonte George, which fell short.

Head coach Doug Christie praised Sabonis’ contributions, stating, “I can’t say enough about what Domas brings.” The win thrilled the home crowd at Golden 1 Center, as Sacramento fans celebrated their first victory.

Looking ahead, the Kings are set to host the Los Angeles Lakers on Sunday, aiming to build on their momentum from this thrilling win.