Salt Lake City, UT – NBA Playoffs Heat Up With Local Ties
The 2025 NBA playoffs, full of excitement, have showcased notable contributions from Utah-affiliated players, culminating in a thrilling matchup between the Oklahoma City Thunder and Indiana Pacers in the Finals, beginning Thursday, June 5.
Seven players from the Beehive State have made waves this postseason. Highlighting their journey is Dillon Jones, a rookie from Weber State, who has supported the Thunder’s charge to the Finals with average playoff stats of 2.7 points and one rebound across seven games. Jones’s breakout moment came during the Western Conference Finals, where he scored ten points and contributed defensively.
Conversely, Damian Lillard, the star guard for the Milwaukee Bucks, faced a devastating setback. After returning from injury, he suffered a torn achilles tendon, likely sidelining him for the entire upcoming season. Before his exit, Lillard struggled, scoring just 21 points over three playoff games.
Other notable players include Delon Wright, who transitioned to the New York Knicks midseason. He averaged 4.3 points after being acquired but saw minimal playoff action. Meanwhile, Kyle Kuzma’s production dipped dramatically with the Bucks, averaging just 5.8 points during a first-round exit against the Pacers.
Neemias Queta and Sam Merrill also made playoff appearances, with Queta, a former USU player, contributing in limited minutes for the Celtics, and Merrill, an important bench player for the Cavaliers, hitting seven threes in an early playoff victory.
Gary Payton Jr. continues to be a critical defensive asset for the Golden State Warriors, averaging 4.6 points during the playoffs.
As the Finals approach, basketball fans eagerly await the clash of the Thunder and Pacers, promising a captivating battle on the court.
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