Can you sense it? The seasonal shift, the new calendar month, and that irresistible urge to share speculative thoughts like “here are 5 reasons why Walter Clayton Jr. will be Rookie of the Year” or “Get ready for a throwback season from Kevin Love”? The air has a refreshing chill, jackets are getting heavier, and leaves are falling across the northern hemisphere—it’s a time of celebration.
These are the indicators, and it’s your final notice: the NBA season is here. There’s no turning back. Cities like Abu Dhabi and Melbourne have already been introduced to American basketball action. From Denver to Oklahoma City, it’s officially basketball season. If you’re prioritizing playoff baseball over the excitement on the court, it might be time to rethink your priorities.
The Utah Jazz are in action this week. If you happen to be at East High School in Salt Lake City, you might already know this (shout-out to Vanessa Hudgins). It’s true—the preseason may not be competitive, but it remains basketball, and my cravings must be satisfied.
At last, the season of speculation is over. Kevin Love’s mustache is now prominently featured in high definition, and I can enjoy basketball while indulging in some snacks. This captures the essence of the American dream: life, liberty, and the pursuit of sporting escapism (also known as the rebuilding phase of Utah Jazz basketball).
The Jazz roster is packed with youthful talent. The combination of Kyle Anderson and Brice Sensabaugh is intriguingly slow-paced, making it feel like you’re watching the game in slow motion. Cody Williams has bulked up, potentially bringing some toughness to the team, while Ace Bailey seems to have an incredible burst of energy. Lauri Markkanen sometimes appears to be supercharged (just kidding, of course).
Question 1: Which young players have improved the most?
This is the main question for the Utah Jazz this season. Rookies Ace Bailey and Walt Clayton are key players to watch. Ace could be a future star, while Clayton may already be the best point guard on the team. The focus is on how well they adapt to the NBA. For second- and third-year players, the goal is to see growth. Can Cody Williams translate his summer performance into regular-season success? Will Isaiah Collier become a more accurate shooter? How can Keyonte George enhance his efficiency? With so much talent and potential, this season is about discovering who steps up.
Question 2: Which players are moving the Jazz in the right direction?
The Jazz are still a ways from being competitive, but they are seeking true NBA talent. Lauri Markkanen and Walker Kessler appear to be the only reliable contributors not considered veteran fillers. The future lies with younger players like Taylor Hendricks, Kyle Filipowski, and Brice Sensabaugh. Who among them will assert themselves this season?
Question 3: Are you having fun?
This is the most crucial question. Ultimately, basketball is about enjoyment. Realistically, expectations should be tempered, and excitement may not stem from winning records. The joy comes from the sounds of sneakers on the court, the satisfying “swish” of the ball going through the net, and those electrifying moments that make basketball a delightful experience. So as you tune in to see the Jazz play, ask yourself: are you having fun?
Calvin Barrett is a writer, editor, and avid Mario Kart enthusiast based in Tokyo, Japan. Since 2024, he has covered the NBA and College Sports.
