Wembanyama scores 34 as Spurs eliminate Jazz from NBA Cup playoff

SALT LAKE CITY – Victor Wembanyama seems to feel right at home playing in Utah.

The last time the San Antonio Spurs’ rising star was in Salt Lake City, he recorded a rare five-on-five. On Tuesday, he hung a 30 pc. Heck, the Jazz even seemed to welcome him, as the team’s special NBA Cup court looked much more Spurs-like than Jazz-like.

Wembanyama had 34 points and seven rebounds as San Antonio pulled away late for a 128-115 victory over the Jazz Tuesday at the Delta Center.

With the loss, Utah has officially been eliminated from NBA Cup contention.

San Antonio outscored Utah 32-22 in the fourth quarter, including an 11-3 run midway through the frame to take control.

Wembanyama was 13-of-23 from the field and hit six 3-pointers.

Keyonte George had 26 points on 9-for-16 shooting and Collin Sexton added 20 points and five assists. The Jazz shot 51% from the field and 37% from 3-point range, but were hampered by 21 turnovers, which led to 33 points from San Antonio.

Lauri Markkanen, who finished with 14 points, had to be helped off the court after he bumped knees with Wembanyama late in the game; he did not return. The Jazz said the injury was a left knee contusion.

This story will be updated.