The end of the NBA’s regular season means something different for each team. For some, this stretch serves as a preparation period ahead of a title quest. For others, the fate of the franchise’s direction hinges on their performance during this time.
For squads like the Utah Jazz, this period is for reps, with the future at the forefront.
They brought in a talented draft class last June, and are actively working to develop these young players into franchise cornerstones. They have already hit it big with rookie Keyonte George. The No. 16 overall pick has established himself as one of the league’s best rookies with his crafty play from the point guard position. However, Utah also spent a high pick on Brice Sensabaugh, who was selected No. 28 overall out of Ohio State. With his steady productivity and impressive flashes, Sensabaugh has proved to be an intriguing prospect through his play in the Big Ten and in the G League.
Sensabaugh barely played with the senior Jazz team throughout the first 53 games of their season. He spent most of the time starring for Utah’s G League affiliate, the Salt Lake City Stars. Prior to February, he had appeared in less than 12 minutes of NBA action.
But towards the end of February, the 6-foot-5 wing has inched into the Jazz’s rotation, earning his awaited opportunity. He made his first start of his NBA career in Wednesday’s loss to the Chicago Bulls, posting a double-double of 15 points and 12 rebounds in the process. He followed this up with another start on Saturday night at the Denver Nuggets. The defending champions won this game by a wide margin, but Sensabaugh put in work with 16 points and 3 assists on just eleven shot attempts.
With performances like these last two, Sensabaugh is making the most of his opportunity to play himself into the forefront of Utah’s future. Given his deep bag of moves and smooth scoring touch, Sensabaugh can make shots from all over the floor. Pair this with exceptional strength in his 235-pound frame and a functional handle, and it’s easy to see how the former Buckeye boasts star potential. He’s someone the Jazz surely want to continue developing.
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