Estimated read time: 1-2 minutes
This archived news story is available only for your personal, non-commercial use. Information in the story may be outdated or superseded by additional information. Reading or replaying the story in its archived form does not constitute a republication of the story.
The Utah Jazz 2011-2012 season came to a close Monday night after their 87-81 loss to the Spurs. San Antonio beat Utah in four straight games to advance onto the next round of the Western Conference Playoffs.
There was hope early on as head coach Ty Corbin started the "Big 3", which consisted of Millsap, Favors and Jefferson. That group played well and gave the Jazz an early 4 point lead before San Antonio went on a 7-0 run to finish the first quarter and lead by 3.
No matter what the Jazz did, San Antonio had an answer. After the Jazz pulled to within three in the third, San Antonio went on another 7-0 run to end the quarter. The Jazz didn't give up though. Utah fought their way back to within four with :49 seconds left in the game but couldn't get any closer. I guess that's what happens when you're facing a team that's won NBA Titles with a roster full of veteran players that have seen everything.
Al Jefferson led the Jazz in scoring with 26 points. Devin Harris finished the night with 19 while Derrick Favors picked up 16 points and 10 rebounds. The Spurs had five players finish the game in double figures, led by Manu Ginobili's 17 off the bench.
As I tweeted out tonight (follow me @kslshep), the Jazz were playing with house money. They beat the odds by making the playoffs and they were beaten by a far superior team. There is nothing to be ashamed of.
The team will hold their annual "Locker Cleanout" tomorrow before the players leave for the offseason.
