Jazz Defeat Nuggets 109-97 in NBA Clash
Sunday, October 4, 2026, 7:00 PM ET · CU Events Center
Utah Jazz 109, Denver Nuggets 97, final. Our NBA picks are sealed as a hash before kickoff and settled in public, losses included.
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Quick answers
Who won Utah Jazz vs Denver Nuggets?
Utah Jazz beat Denver Nuggets 109-97 at CU Events Center on October 4, 2026.
In a competitive NBA matchup, the Utah Jazz secured a 109-97 victory over the Denver Nuggets at the CU Events Center. This win marks a strong start for the Jazz, improving their away record to 1-0, while the Nuggets fall to 0-1 in the early season.
The game showcased the Jazz's ability to perform on the road, a stark contrast to their recent form where they have struggled overall, holding a record of 1-9 in their last 10 games prior to this matchup. Their average scoring during this stretch was 118.6 points, but they allowed a significant 132.8 points per game, highlighting defensive vulnerabilities. In contrast, the Nuggets had been on a remarkable run, boasting a 10-0 record in their last 10 games, with an impressive average of 131.2 points scored and only 120.7 points allowed.
Historically, the Nuggets have dominated recent meetings against the Jazz, winning the last four encounters, including two earlier this year. However, the Jazz broke this trend with their latest win, showcasing their resilience and ability to adapt. In their previous meetings this season, the Nuggets had won by scores of 130-117 and 135-129, indicating a competitive rivalry.
In terms of player availability, both teams faced challenges with injuries. The Nuggets had Spencer Jones (hamstring), Jamal Murray (personal), and Trevon Brazile (undisclosed) listed as day-to-day. The Jazz also had players in a similar situation, with Josh Green (knee), Brice Sensabaugh (hip), and Kyle Filipowski (back) all day-to-day. The impact of these injuries could have influenced team strategies and rotations during the game.
The betting market reflected the Nuggets' recent dominance, with odds favoring them as the home team. However, the Jazz's performance in this game may shift perceptions moving forward. The conditions at the CU Events Center were typical for early October, with players adapting to the atmosphere and the early season's rhythm.
As the game unfolded, the Jazz's scoring plays in the fourth quarter were crucial to their success. Ryan Nembhard's 26-foot jump shot, along with contributions from Harrison Ingram and Emanuel Miller, helped solidify their lead. The Nuggets, despite their struggles, managed to score through Lonnie Walker IV, but it wasn't enough to close the gap.
Overall, this game serves as a reminder that the NBA season is unpredictable, and teams can rise to the occasion regardless of prior form. The Jazz's victory not only boosts their confidence but also sets the stage for a competitive series as they prepare for their next encounters.
What we said beforehand
The upcoming NBA game between the Denver Nuggets and the Utah Jazz promises to be an intriguing matchup as both teams look to start their season on a positive note. The game will take place at the CU Events Center on October 4, 2026, with both teams entering the contest with a record of 0-0, marking the beginning of a new season and a fresh slate.
The Nuggets have shown strong form in recent matchups, winning their last 10 games with an impressive average of 131.2 points scored and allowing 120.7 points per game during that stretch. Their home record stands at 7-0, while they have also performed well on the road with a 3-0 record. In their last five games, the Nuggets have averaged 132.8 points scored and 122.0 points allowed, demonstrating their offensive prowess.
In contrast, the Jazz have struggled, posting a record of 1-9 in their last ten games. They have averaged 118.6 points scored while allowing 132.8 points per game during this span. Their away record is particularly concerning, as they have yet to secure a victory on the road this season, holding an 0-6 record. In their last five games, the Jazz have averaged 121.6 points scored but have allowed a staggering 134.8 points per game.
When it comes to head-to-head matchups, the Nuggets have dominated the Jazz recently, winning all four encounters in the current season. The most recent meeting took place on April 2, 2026, where the Nuggets triumphed with a score of 130-117. This trend of success against the Jazz could play a significant role in the Nuggets' confidence heading into the game.
In terms of injuries, both teams have players listed as day-to-day. For the Nuggets, Spencer Jones is dealing with a hamstring issue, Jamal Murray has a personal matter, and Trevon Brazile's injury status is undisclosed. On the Jazz side, Josh Green is nursing a knee injury, Brice Sensabaugh has a hip issue, Kyle Filipowski is dealing with a back problem, and Trey Alexander has rib concerns. The availability of these players could impact both teams' strategies and effectiveness on the court.
The market has set the odds for this matchup, with the Nuggets favored to win, reflecting their recent form and home advantage. The specific odds have been provided by the betting provider, but the exact figures are not disclosed in this block.
As the game approaches, conditions at the CU Events Center will be crucial. Fans can expect an electric atmosphere as both teams look to make a statement in their season opener. Viewers should watch for how the Nuggets leverage their home-court advantage and whether the Jazz can find a way to break their recent losing streak against a formidable opponent. The performance of key players, particularly those dealing with injuries, will also be a focal point as both teams aim to establish themselves early in the season.
Injury report
- Spencer JonesDay-To-DayHamstringDenver Nuggets
- Jamal MurrayDay-To-DayPersonalDenver Nuggets
- Trevon BrazileDay-To-DayUndisclosedDenver Nuggets
- Josh GreenDay-To-DayKneeUtah Jazz
- Brice SensabaughDay-To-DayHipUtah Jazz
- Kyle FilipowskiDay-To-DayBackUtah Jazz
Leaders
- PointsJulian Strawther14Denver Nuggets
- AssistsNikola Jokic7Denver Nuggets
- ReboundsMarvin Bagley III7Denver Nuggets
- PointsLauri Markkanen17Utah Jazz
- AssistsIsaiah Collier4Utah Jazz
- ReboundsMo Bamba7Utah Jazz
Recent form
Denver Nuggets
Last 10: 10-0Streak W10131.2 scored · 120.7 allowed per game7-0 at home
- W128-118at San Antonio SpursApr 13
- W127-107vs Oklahoma City ThunderApr 11
- W136-119vs Memphis GrizzliesApr 9
- W137-132vs Portland Trail BlazersApr 7
- W136-134vs San Antonio SpursApr 4
- W130-117at Utah JazzApr 2
- W116-93vs Golden State WarriorsMar 30
- W135-129vs Utah JazzMar 28
- W142-135vs Dallas MavericksMar 26
- W125-123at Phoenix SunsMar 25
Utah Jazz
Last 10: 1-9Streak L1118.6 scored · 132.8 allowed per game0-6 away
- L107-131at Los Angeles LakersApr 13
- W147-101vs Memphis GrizzliesApr 11
- L137-156at New Orleans PelicansApr 8
- L111-146at Oklahoma City ThunderApr 5
- L106-140at Houston RocketsApr 4
- L117-130vs Denver NuggetsApr 2
- L113-122vs Cleveland CavaliersMar 31
- L109-134at Phoenix SunsMar 29
- L129-135at Denver NuggetsMar 28
- L110-133vs Washington WizardsMar 26
Standings
| Team | Games behind | Lost | Streak | Win % | Won |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Utah | - | 0 | W1 | 1.000 | 1 |
| Minnesota | 0.5 | 0 | - | .000 | 0 |
| Portland | 0.5 | 0 | - | .000 | 0 |
| Oklahoma City | 0.5 | 0 | - | .000 | 0 |
| Denver | 1 | 1 | L1 | .000 | 0 |
Box score
| Stat | Utah Jazz | Denver Nuggets |
|---|---|---|
| Field goals | 39-93 | 36-89 |
| Field goal % | 42 | 40 |
| Three-pointers | 15-45 | 11-39 |
| Three-point % | 33 | 28 |
| Free throws | 16-20 | 14-21 |
| Free throw % | 80 | 67 |
| Rebounds | 54 | 47 |
| Offensive rebounds | 14 | 12 |
| Defensive rebounds | 40 | 35 |
| Assists | 28 | 27 |
| Steals | 4 | 4 |
| Blocks | 5 | 8 |
| Turnovers | 10 | 11 |
| Team turnovers | 1 | 0 |
| Technical fouls | 0 | 0 |
| Technical fouls, total | 0 | 0 |
| Flagrant fouls | 0 | 0 |
| Points off turnovers | 15 | 15 |
| Fast-break points | 8 | 14 |
| Points in the paint | 34 | 40 |
| Fouls | 25 | 23 |
| Largest lead | 18 | 6 |
| Lead changes | 2 | 2 |
| Time in front | 88 | 11 |
How the scoring went
- 3rd Quarter66-59Trevon Brazile makes running dunk (Ryan Nembhard assists)
- 3rd Quarter68-59Keyonte George makes dunk (Jaxson Hayes assists)
- 3rd Quarter68-62Cam Whitmore makes 26-foot three pointer
- 3rd Quarter71-62Josh Okogie makes 23-foot three point jumper (Keyonte George assists)
- 3rd Quarter71-64Julian Strawther makes 21-foot fade away jump shot (Ryan Nembhard assists)
- 3rd Quarter73-64Jaxson Hayes makes layup (Josh Okogie assists)
- 3rd Quarter76-64Isaiah Collier makes 24-foot three point jumper (Jaxson Hayes assists)
- 3rd Quarter73-66Julian Strawther makes driving layup (Cam Whitmore assists)
- 3rd Quarter76-68Julian Strawther makes 2-foot two point shot (Zeke Nnaji assists)
- 3rd Quarter78-68Ace Bailey makes layup (Svi Mykhailiuk assists)
- 3rd Quarter78-70Julian Strawther makes tip shot
- 3rd Quarter78-73Julian Strawther makes 23-foot three point jumper (Alpha Diallo assists)
- 3rd Quarter80-73Ace Bailey makes 2-foot driving dunk (Jaxson Hayes assists)
- 3rd Quarter80-76Trevon Brazile makes 24-foot three point jumper (Julian Strawther assists)
- 3rd Quarter82-76Isaiah Collier makes layup
- 3rd Quarter83-76Isaiah Collier makes free throw 1 of 1
- 3rd Quarter86-76Blake Hinson makes 24-foot three point jumper (Tamar Bates assists)
- 3rd Quarter88-76Mo Bamba makes 1-foot alley oop dunk (Isaiah Collier assists)
- 3rd Quarter88-77Zeke Nnaji makes free throw 1 of 2
- 4th Quarter88-78Bryce Hopkins makes free throw 2 of 2
- 4th Quarter91-78Blake Hinson makes 28-foot three point jumper (Mo Bamba assists)
- 4th Quarter91-80Ryan Nembhard makes 16-foot pullup jump shot (DaRon Holmes II assists)
- 4th Quarter93-80Harrison Ingram makes 2-foot layup (Mo Bamba assists)
- 4th Quarter94-80Mo Bamba makes free throw 1 of 2
- 4th Quarter95-80Mo Bamba makes free throw 2 of 2
- 4th Quarter98-80Blake Hinson makes 25-foot three point step back jumpshot
- 4th Quarter98-82DaRon Holmes II makes running layup (Lonnie Walker IV assists)
- 4th Quarter100-82Mo Bamba makes tip shot
- 4th Quarter100-84DaRon Holmes II makes running dunk (Ryan Nembhard assists)
- 4th Quarter102-84Blake Hinson makes 22-foot step back jumpshot
- 4th Quarter102-85Alpha Diallo makes free throw 1 of 2
- 4th Quarter102-86Alpha Diallo makes free throw 2 of 2
- 4th Quarter102-89Ryan Nembhard makes 26-foot running jump shot (Alpha Diallo assists)
- 4th Quarter104-89Harrison Ingram makes 10-foot two point shot
- 4th Quarter105-89Blake Hinson makes 23-foot three point jumper (Trey Alexander assists)
- 4th Quarter107-91Emanuel Miller makes two point shot (Lonnie Walker IV assists)
- 4th Quarter107-92Emanuel Miller makes free throw 1 of 1
- 4th Quarter107-95Lonnie Walker IV makes 26-foot three point step back jumpshot
- 4th Quarter109-95Harrison Ingram makes 3-foot reverse layup (Trey Alexander assists)
- 4th Quarter109-97Emanuel Miller makes tip shot
Venue
- CU Events CenterBoulder, CO
- Attendance7860
- OfficialsMitchell Ervin, Che Flores, Rodney Mott
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