After missing the past six games with foot inflammation, rookie Keyonte George returned on Tuesday and helped the Utah Jazz to a win over the San Antonio Spurs.
George produced 10 points, four assists and one steal in 24 minutes of work in the 130-118 victory on the road. He went 4-of-11 from the field, including 2-of-5 from 3-point range, off the bench in his first game back since injuring his left foot on Dec. 13.
The 16th pick had started in 16 straight games before suffering the injury. However, the team wanted to bring him off the bench in his first game back and will likely have him return to his previous role once he is up to speed.
Jazz coach Will Hardy liked his performance.
I thought it was good. It took him a minute to get into the flow of the game. … I thought he made a lot of good decisions. We, obviously, will continue to put the ball in his hands as a decision-maker. I love the fact that he took five 3s. I thought he made some good reads shooting off the bounce. All indications as of now are that he got through the game healthy, which is my No. 1 concern.
The injury occurred two nights after George produced a career-high 30 points, seven assists and three rebounds in a loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder. He looked to be in a good rhythm in that outing and looks to return to form now that he is healthy again.
George is averaging 10.9 points, five assists and 2.9 rebounds on 36.1% shooting from the field in 25 games. He is one of five first-year players with a 30-point game this season, and he is first in assists and sixth in scoring among rookies.
The Jazz return to action Thursday at New Orleans.
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