Trails Blazers Lead Jazz at Halftime in Preseason Clash

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – The Portland Trail Blazers are leading the Utah Jazz 64-60 at halftime in their NBA preseason game on Thursday night. Jrue Holiday scored a crucial three-pointer in the final minutes of the second quarter, helping the Blazers maintain a narrow advantage.

Both teams exchanged leads during a high-scoring first half, highlighted by dynamic performances from players on both sides. Walker Kessler opened the scoring for the Jazz with a two-point free throw, but Donovan Clingan quickly answered with two points of his own for Portland. Keyonte George added a three-pointer along with a foul, pushing the Jazz ahead briefly.

The Blazers responded quickly; Holiday finished a layup and Taylor Hendricks dunked to regain the lead, making the score 61-60 before Holiday sealed the half with his three-pointer. Earlier in the quarter, Hendricks had also made a three-pointer, contributing to the Blazers’ scoring surge.

Both teams capitalized on free throw opportunities. Keyonte George and Lauri Markkanen helped keep the Jazz in the game with multiple trips to the line. Markkanen notably put the Jazz ahead with a dunk early on, giving them a five-point lead at 25-20.

The Delta Center witnessed an intense matchup, with fast-paced transitions and defensive efforts from both teams. The Blazers entered the game missing key players, including Damian Lillard and Scoot Henderson due to injuries, while Utah was without Georges Niang.

The players overcame their challenges as the game developed a competitive rhythm. As the second half approaches, both teams look to refine their strategies ahead of the official start of the 2025-26 NBA season.