411 REFERENCE · Wikipedia
1996–97 Utah Jazz season
Reference material by Wikipedia contributors. This retains its source identity and is not 411 news reporting.
NBA professional basketball team season
March 2026
August 2023
Utah Jazz 1997 yes yes 64 18 Midwest 1 1 Jerry Sloan Tim Howells Larry H. Miller Delta Center NBA Finals(lost to Bulls 2–4) UTA KJZZ-TV
Fox Sports Utah KFNZ
The 1996–97 Utah Jazz season was the 23rd season for the Utah Jazz in the National Basketball Association, and their 18th season in Salt Lake City, Utah. Utah Jazz Basketball-Reference https://www.basketball-reference.com/teams/UTA/ August 10, 2026
Season summary
Off-season
During the off-season, the Jazz redesigned their primary logo, replacing the colors purple, green and yellow with a different shade of purple, light blue, copper and teal to their color scheme of white. The team's primary logo featured the team name "Jazz" in light blue and purple with a teal outline, below purple and white mountains and above a purple basketball with white seams, surrounded by a copper circle with a black outline, featuring the state name Utah in purple letters with a white outline.Falk Aaron The Note: The History of the Utah Jazz's Purple Mountains https://www.nba.com/jazz/note-history-utah-jazzs-purple-mountains NBA Media Ventures, LLC UtahJazz.com August 28, 2019 August 28, 2019History of the Jazz Name and Logo https://www.nba.com/jazz/features/1011_historyofthenamelogo.html NBA Media Ventures, LLC UtahJazz.com August 28, 2019 Utah Jazz Primary Logo Chris Creamer's SportsLogos.net https://www.sportslogos.net/logos/view/8316e7nrg5xuouqqo21bjgem9/Utah_Jazz/1997/Primary_Logo July 7, 2021 The team also redesigned their home and road uniforms, which featured the team's primary logo of mountains along with the team name on the front of their jerseys, and a purple, teal, white and copper trim. The white home uniforms featured purple mountains on the front of their jerseys, and the left leg of their shorts, while the road uniforms were changed to a different shade of purple, and featured white and light blue mountains. Utah Jazz Home Uniform Chris Creamer's SportsLogos.net https://www.sportslogos.net/logos/view/bf4fw9xbflo9zqf9oiepoui9h/Utah_Jazz/1997/Home_Uniform July 7, 2021 Utah Jazz Road Uniform Chris Creamer's SportsLogos.net https://www.sportslogos.net/logos/view/yi3vrny729ajnq7yvl3dz0jah/Utah_Jazz/1997/Road_Uniform July 7, 2021
The team's new primary logo, and new uniforms would both remain in use until 2004, while the basic design of the logo would last until 2016.
Regular season
After a 2–2 start to the regular season, the Jazz posted a 15-game winning streak between November and December, Jazz 110, Pacers 86 United Press International December 11, 1996 https://www.upi.com/Archives/1996/12/11/Jazz-110-Pacers-86/3540850280400/ November 9, 2022 and later on held a 33–14 record at the All-Star break. NBA Games Played on February 6, 1997 Basketball-Reference https://www.basketball-reference.com/boxscores/?month=2&day=6&year=1997 July 19, 2022 The team posted a 31–4 record for the remainder of the season, in which they posted a seven-game winning streak in February, posted another 15-game winning streak between March and April, Associated Press Shaq Beats Buzzer for 100-98 Win Over Jazz Deseret News April 14, 1997 https://www.deseret.com/1997/4/14/19306540/shaq-beats-buzzer-for-100-98-win-over-jazz October 22, 2022 and won 19 of their final 20 games. The Jazz finished in first place in the Midwest Division with a franchise-best 64–18 record, and earned the first seed in the Western Conference; 1996–97 Utah Jazz Schedule and Results Basketball-Reference https://www.basketball-reference.com/teams/UTA/1997_games.html June 21, 2021 the team qualified for the NBA playoffs for the 14th consecutive year. The Jazz also had the second-best home record in the league with a 38–3 record at the Delta Center.
Karl Malone averaged 27.4 points, 9.9 rebounds, 4.5 assists and 1.4 steals per game, and was named the NBA Most Valuable Player of the Year, finishing in first place ahead of All-Star guard Michael Jordan of the Chicago Bulls in Most Valuable Player voting; Associated Press Malone Beats Out Jordan for M.V.P The New York Times May 19, 1997 https://www.nytimes.com/1997/05/19/sports/malone-beats-out-jordan-for-mvp.html July 21, 2017 Kawakami Tim MVP: Malone, the Standout Jazz Forward Known as Mailman, Edges Jordan in the Voting to Earn Stamp of Greatness Los Angeles Times May 19, 1997 https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1997-05-19-sp-60282-story.html September 24, 2022 NBA MVP & ABA Most Valuable Player Award Winners Basketball-Reference https://www.basketball-reference.com/awards/mvp.html November 29, 2022 he was also named to the All-NBA First Team, and to the NBA All-Defensive First Team. In addition, Jeff Hornacek averaged 14.5 points, 4.4 assists and 1.5 steals per game, while John Stockton provided the team with 14.4 points, 10.5 assists and 2.0 steals per game, and was named to the All-NBA Third Team, and to the NBA All-Defensive Second Team. Meanwhile, Bryon Russell showed improvement becoming the team's starting small forward, averaging 10.8 points and 1.4 steals per game, and leading the Jazz with 108 three-point field goals, while second-year center Greg Ostertag averaged 7.3 points and rebounds per game each, and led the team with 2.0 blocks per game. Off the bench, Antoine Carr contributed 7.4 points per game, while rookie shooting guard, and second-round draft pick Shandon Anderson contributed 5.9 points per game, and Howard Eisley provided with 4.5 points and 2.4 assists per game. 1996–97 Utah Jazz Roster and Stats Basketball-Reference https://www.basketball-reference.com/teams/UTA/1997.html June 21, 2021
During the NBA All-Star weekend at the Gund Arena in Cleveland, Ohio, Malone and Stockton were both selected for the 1997 NBA All-Star Game, as members of the Western Conference All-Star team. Fry Darrell On to the Next Stage Tampa Bay Times February 8, 1997 https://www.tampabay.com/archive/1997/02/08/on-to-the-next-stage/ August 16, 2025 NBA.com Staff 1997 NBA All-Star Recap NBA.com September 13, 2021 https://www.nba.com/news/history-all-star-recap-1997 May 16, 2023 1997 NBA All-Star Game: East 132, West 120 Basketball-Reference https://www.basketball-reference.com/allstar/NBA_1997.html November 27, 2021 However, Malone was booed by the fans at the Gund Arena throughout the entire All-Star Game. Prior to the game, Malone stated that he would rather be at his home in Salt Lake City than play in the All-Star Game in Cleveland; he later on stated that he did not mean to disrespect the city of Cleveland, and that his comments were taken out of context. Jorgensen Loren No Offense, But Malone Would Rather Be Home Deseret News February 8, 1997 https://www.deseret.com/1997/2/8/19293914/no-offense-but-malone-would-rather-be-home April 19, 2023 Roberts Selena This Year, No Argument About the M.V.P. Choice The New York Times February 10, 1997 https://www.nytimes.com/1997/02/10/sports/this-year-no-argument-about-the-mvp-choice.html August 16, 2025 Jorgensen Loren Gund Fans Misread Jazz Player's Tune Deseret News February 10, 1997 https://www.deseret.com/1997/2/10/19294334/gund-fans-misread-jazz-player-s-tune/ August 16, 2025 In addition, Stockton also participated in the NBA Three-Point Shootout for the second time. NBA & ABA All-Star Game Contest Winners Basketball-Reference https://www.basketball-reference.com/allstar/contest.html September 19, 2025 Stockton finished in 15th place in Most Valuable Player voting, 1996–97 NBA Awards Voting Basketball-Reference https://www.basketball-reference.com/awards/awards_1997.html January 2, 2022 while head coach Jerry Sloan finished in third place in Coach of the Year voting; Riley Coach of Year; Sloan 3rd Deseret News May 9, 1997 https://www.deseret.com/1997/5/9/19311801/riley-coach-of-year-sloan-3rd January 2, 2023 despite showing a lot of improvement over the previous season, Russell did not receive any votes in Most Improved Player voting.
The Jazz finished fourth in the NBA in home-game attendance, with an attendance of 811,439 at the Delta Center during the regular season. 1996–97 NBA Season Summary Basketball-Reference https://www.basketball-reference.com/leagues/NBA_1997.html October 10, 2025
NBA playoffs
In the Western Conference First Round of the 1997 NBA playoffs, the Jazz faced off against the 8th–seeded Los Angeles Clippers, a team that featured Loy Vaught, Malik Sealy and Rodney Rogers. The Jazz won the first two games over the Clippers at home at the Delta Center, before winning Game 3 on the road, 104–92 at the Los Angeles Memorial Sports Arena, to win the series in a three-game sweep. Associated Press Jazz Gets a Sweep of Its Own The New York Times April 29, 1997 https://www.nytimes.com/1997/04/29/sports/jazz-gets-a-sweep-of-its-own.html May 13, 2022 Plaschke Bill It's Over, But at Least There Is Hope Now Los Angeles Times April 29, 1997 https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1997-04-29-sp-53548-story.html May 30, 2022 1997 NBA Western Conference First Round: Clippers vs. Jazz Basketball-Reference https://www.basketball-reference.com/playoffs/1997-nba-western-conference-first-round-clippers-vs-jazz.html February 4, 2023
In the Western Conference Semi-finals, the team faced off against the 4th–seeded Los Angeles Lakers, who were led by the trio of All-Star center Shaquille O'Neal, All-Star guard Eddie Jones, and Nick Van Exel. The Jazz won the first two games at the Delta Center, but then lost Game 3 to the Lakers on the road, 104–84 at the Great Western Forum. 1997 NBA Western Conference Semifinals Game 3: Utah Jazz at Los Angeles Lakers Box Score, May 8, 1997 Basketball-Reference https://www.basketball-reference.com/boxscores/199705080LAL.html June 6, 2026 The Jazz managed to win the next two games, which included a Game 5 win over the Lakers at the Delta Center, 98–93 to win the series in five games. Friend Tom Malone and Stockton Star in Same Old Story The New York Times May 13, 1997 https://www.nytimes.com/1997/05/13/sports/malone-and-stockton-star-in-same-old-story.html May 13, 2022 Howard-Cooper Scott Lakers Get Aired Out Los Angeles Times May 13, 1997 https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1997-05-13-sp-58320-story.html May 30, 2022 1997 NBA Western Conference Semifinals: Lakers vs. Jazz Basketball-Reference https://www.basketball-reference.com/playoffs/1997-nba-western-conference-semifinals-lakers-vs-jazz.html February 4, 2023
In the Western Conference Finals, the Jazz then faced off against the 3rd–seeded Houston Rockets, who were led by the All-Star trio of Hakeem Olajuwon, Charles Barkley and Clyde Drexler. The Jazz won the first two games at the Delta Center to take a 2–0 series lead. Sheridan Chris Jazz 104, Rockets 92 Associated Press May 21, 1997 https://apnews.com/article/2c8e91cbe65093a01945fcf9c037ab01 February 24, 2023 https://web.archive.org/web/20230225030454/https://apnews.com/article/2c8e91cbe65093a01945fcf9c037ab01 February 25, 2023 dead Friend Tom Jazz No-Names Introduce Themselves to Rockets The New York Times May 22, 1997 https://www.nytimes.com/1997/05/22/sports/jazz-no-names-introduce-themselves-to-rockets.html January 18, 2022 Howard-Cooper Scott Rockets Bruised, Battered by Jazz Los Angeles Times May 22, 1997 https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1997-05-22-sp-61399-story.html October 5, 2022 However, the Rockets managed to win the next two games to even the series, as Rockets forward Eddie Johnson hit a dramatic three-point shot at the buzzer to win Game 4, 95–92 at The Summit. Roberts Selena A Bolt of 0.2-Second Lightning in Houston The New York Times May 26, 1997 https://www.nytimes.com/1997/05/26/sports/a-bolt-of-0.2-second-lightning-in-houston.html May 13, 2022 Howard-Cooper Scott Rockets Are No Longer a Longshot Los Angeles Times May 26, 1997 https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1997-05-26-sp-62713-story.html October 5, 2022 1997 NBA Western Conference Finals Game 4: Utah Jazz at Houston Rockets Box Score, May 25, 1997 Basketball-Reference https://www.basketball-reference.com/boxscores/199705250HOU.html May 31, 2026 After winning Game 5 at the Delta Center, 96–91, Friend Tom Resurgent Malone Puts Jazz Ahead The New York Times May 28, 1997 https://www.nytimes.com/1997/05/28/sports/resurgent-malone-puts-jazz-ahead.html January 18, 2022 Howard-Cooper Scott It's All in the Delivery Los Angeles Times May 28, 1997 https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1997-05-28-sp-63146-story.html October 5, 2022 1997 NBA Western Conference Finals Game 5: Houston Rockets at Utah Jazz Box Score, May 27, 1997 Basketball-Reference https://www.basketball-reference.com/boxscores/199705270UTA.html May 31, 2026 Game 6 at The Summit appeared to be heading into overtime, until Stockton hit a game-winning three-pointer at the buzzer, as the Jazz defeated the Rockets, 103–100 to win the series in six games, and advance to the NBA Finals for the first time in franchise history. Friend Tom Stockton Sends Jazz to Finals at Last Second The New York Times May 30, 1997 https://www.nytimes.com/1997/05/30/sports/stockton-sends-jazz-to-finals-at-last-second.html July 24, 2017 Howard-Cooper Scott Jazz Toots Its Own Horn, Now Gets to Face the Music Los Angeles Times May 30, 1997 https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1997-05-30-sp-63941-story.html May 30, 2022 1997 NBA Western Conference Finals: Rockets vs. Jazz Basketball-Reference https://www.basketball-reference.com/playoffs/1997-nba-western-conference-finals-rockets-vs-jazz.html February 4, 2023
In the 1997 NBA Finals, the Jazz faced off against the top–seeded, and defending NBA champion Bulls, who were led by the trio of Jordan, All-Star forward Scottie Pippen, and rebound-specialist Dennis Rodman. The Jazz lost the first two games to the Bulls on the road at the United Center, but then won their next two home games to even the series at 2–2. In Game 5 at the Delta Center, which was known as "The Flu Game", Jordan scored 38 points in 44 minutes, as the Bulls defeated the Jazz, 90–88 to take a 3–2 series lead. Wise Mike June 12, 1997 Weary Jordan Wills His Team Just One Away The New York Times https://www.nytimes.com/1997/06/12/sports/weary-jordan-wills-his-team-just-one-away.html January 4, 2026 Howard-Cooper Scott Jordan Makes Jazz Air Sick Los Angeles Times June 12, 1997 https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1997-06-12-sp-2600-story.html January 4, 2026 1997 NBA Finals Game 5: Chicago Bulls at Utah Jazz Box Score, June 11, 1997 Basketball-Reference https://www.basketball-reference.com/boxscores/199706110UTA.html May 31, 2026 The Jazz lost Game 6 to the Bulls at the United Center, 90–86, thus losing the series in six games, as the Bulls won their second consecutive NBA championship, and their fifth title in seven years. Wise Mike A Fistful of Rings: Bulls Grab Fifth Title of 90's The New York Times June 14, 1997 https://www.nytimes.com/1997/06/14/sports/a-fistful-of-rings-bulls-grab-fifth-title-of-90-s.html January 14, 2022 Howard-Cooper Scott Bulls Get Fifth Element Los Angeles Times June 14, 1997 https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1997-06-14-sp-3291-story.html June 28, 2022 1997 NBA Finals: Jazz vs. Bulls Basketball-Reference https://www.basketball-reference.com/playoffs/1997-nba-finals-jazz-vs-bulls.html February 4, 2023
Notable highlights
One notable highlight of the season occurred on November 27, 1996, in which the Jazz trailed 70–36 at halftime to the Denver Nuggets at the Delta Center, but came back from a 34-point deficit, outscoring the Nuggets 71–33 in the second half to win the game, 107–103. Evans Richard Dead? Buried? No Way, Say Jazz Deseret News November 28, 1996 https://www.deseret.com/1996/11/28/19279542/dead-buried-no-way-say-jazz February 1, 2023 Associated Press Jazz Zips Back in Record Style The New York Times November 29, 1996 https://www.nytimes.com/1996/11/29/sports/jazz-zips-back-in-record-style.html June 28, 2022 Denver Nuggets at Utah Jazz Box Score, November 27, 1996 Basketball-Reference https://www.basketball-reference.com/boxscores/199611270UTA.html November 18, 2022
Draft picks
1996 NBA draft
Round Pick Player Position Nationality College 1 25 Martin Müürsepp PF/SF 2 54 Shandon Anderson SF/SG United States Georgia
Roster
Utah Jazz 1996–97 #3C2F88 #FFFFFF #007A8C #FFFFFF
40 Shandon Anderson G 6 6 208 1973–12–31 University of Georgia
55 Antoine Carr F 6 9 225 1961–07–23 Wichita State
10 Howard Eisley G 6 2 177 1972–12–04 Boston College
44 Greg Foster basketball C 6 11 240 1968–10–03 University of Texas at El Paso
14 Jeff Hornacek G 6 3 190 1963–05–03 Iowa State
43 Stephen Howard basketball F 6 9 230 1970–05–15 DePaul University
31 Adam Keefe basketball F 6 9 230 1970–02–22 Stanford
32 Karl Malone F 6 9 250 1963–07–24 Louisiana Tech
34 Chris Morris basketball F 6 8 210 1966–01–20 Auburn
00 Greg Ostertag C 7 2 280 1973–03–06 Kansas
3 Bryon Russell F 6 7 225 1970–12–31 Long Beach State
12 John Stockton G 6 1 170 1962–03–26 Gonzaga
Jerry Sloan Gordon Chiesa
David Fredman
Phil Johnson
Kenny Natt https://www.basketball-reference.com/teams/UTA/1997.html March 5, 1997
Roster Notes
Small forward Jamie Watson was waived on March 5, 1997.
Regular season
Season standings
UTA
UTA
z – clinched division title
y – clinched division title
x – clinched playoff spot
1996–97 NBA season Summary - Basketball-Reference.com
Game log
Utah Jazz #644A9C #149BC7 1997 Total: 64–18 (home: 38–3; road: 26–15)
Utah Jazz November yes #149BC7 #644A9C 8 1 3 1
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 1
| November 1
| Seattle
| 19961101 UTA 99 91
| Karl Malone (27)
| Karl Malone (13)
| Hornacek, Stockton (8)
| Delta Center19,911
| 1–0
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 2
| November 2
| @ L.A. Clippers
| 19961102 LAC 95 90
| Karl Malone (21)
| Karl Malone (12)
| John Stockton (7)
| Los Angeles Memorial Sports Arena13,041
| 2–0
|- bgcolor="#ffcccc"
| 3
| November 4
| Houston
| 19961104 UTA 72 75
| Karl Malone (16)
| Karl Malone (14)
| Jeff Hornacek (5)
| Delta Center19,911
| 2–1
|- bgcolor="#ffcccc"
| 4
| November 9
| @ Houston
| 19961109 HOU 85 91
| Karl Malone (32)
| Karl Malone (11)
| John Stockton (6)
| The Summit16,285
| 2–2
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 5
| November 13
| Sacramento
| 19961113 UTA 105 74
| Karl Malone (22)
| Greg Ostertag (13)
| John Stockton (10)
| Delta Center19,283
| 3–2
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 6
| November 15
| Vancouver
| 19961115 UTA 104 96
| Karl Malone (21)
| Greg Ostertag (20)
| John Stockton (18)
| Delta Center19,046
| 4–2
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 7
| November 16
| @ Dallas
| 19961116 DAL 88 87
| John Stockton (23)
| Byron Russell (13)
| John Stockton (8)
| Reunion Arena15,947
| 5–2
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 8
| November 20
| @ L.A. Lakers
| 19961120 LAL 113 97
| Karl Malone (37)
| Greg Ostertag (9)
| John Stockton (13)
| Great Western Forum16,122
| 6–2
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 9
| November 21
| Golden State
| 19961121 UTA 109 104 1
| Karl Malone (33)
| Karl Malone (13)
| John Stockton (15)
| Delta Center18,889
| 7–2
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 10
| November 23
| Chicago
| 19961123 UTA 105 100
| Karl Malone (36)
| Karl Malone (15)
| John Stockton (13)
| Delta Center19,911
| 8–2
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 11
| November 25
| New Jersey
| 19961125 UTA 108 92
| Karl Malone (27)
| Karl Malone (16)
| John Stockton (13)
| Delta Center19,132
| 9–2
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 12
| November 27
| Denver
| 19961127 UTA 107 103
| Karl Malone (31)
| Karl Malone (17)
| John Stockton (10)
| Delta Center19,324
| 10–2
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 13
| November 29
| L.A. Clippers
| 19961129 UTA 111 94
| John Stockton (28)
| Greg Ostertag (14)
| John Stockton (10)
| Delta Center19,381
| 11–2
Utah Jazz December #149BC7 #644A9C 7 1 4 4
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 14
| December 1
| @ Seattle
| 19961201 SEA 96 90
| Karl Malone (30)
| Karl Malone (13)
| John Stockton (12)
| KeyArena17,072
| 12–2
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 15
| December 2
| Charlotte
| 19961202 UTA 107 97
| John Stockton (22)
| Karl Malone (11)
| John Stockton (16)
| Delta Center19,410
| 13–2
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 16
| December 4
| L.A. Lakers
| 19961204 UTA 101 75
| Karl Malone (26)
| Karl Malone (8)
| John Stockton (7)
| Delta Center19,911
| 14–2
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 17
| December 6
| Minnesota
| 19961206 UTA 106 95
| Karl Malone (34)
| Greg Ostertag (8)
| John Stockton (16)
| Delta Center19,911
| 15–2
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 18
| December 7
| @ Denver
| 19961207 DEN 104 91
| Karl Malone (21)
| Karl Malone (9)
| John Stockton (12)
| McNichols Sports Arena12,837
| 16–2
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 19
| December 10
| Indiana
| 19961210 UTA 110 86
| Karl Malone (22)
| Greg Ostertag (15)
| John Stockton (9)
| Delta Center19,911
| 17–2
|- bgcolor="#ffcccc"
| 20
| December 12
| Phoenix
| 19961212 UTA 87 95
| Karl Malone (27)
| Karl Malone (12)
| John Stockton (11)
| Delta Center19,911
| 17–3
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 21
| December 14
| Orlando
| 19961214 UTA 101 68
| Ostertag, Stockton (16)
| Greg Ostertag (16)
| John Stockton (8)
| Delta Center19,911
| 18–3
|- bgcolor="#ffcccc"
| 22
| December 17
| @ New York
| 19961217 NYK 94 99
| Karl Malone (29)
| Karl Malone (14)
| John Stockton (5)
| Madison Square Garden19,763
| 18–4
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 23
| December 19
| @ Miami
| 19961219 MIA 94 87 1
| Karl Malone (35)
| Karl Malone (16)
| John Stockton (10)
| Miami Arena14,919
| 19–4
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 24
| December 20
| @ Orlando
| 19961220 ORL 98 93
| John Stockton (22)
| Karl Malone (6)
| John Stockton (15)
| Orlando Arena17,248
| 20–4
|- bgcolor="#ffcccc"
| 25
| December 22
| @ Cleveland
| 19961222 CLE 94 100
| Karl Malone (20)
| Karl Malone (12)
| John Stockton (9)
| Gund Arena17,205
| 20–5
|- bgcolor="#ffcccc"
| 26
| December 23
| @ Minnesota
| 19961223 MIN 98 107
| Karl Malone (22)
| Karl Malone (13)
| John Stockton (13)
| Target Center14,434
| 20–6
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 27
| December 26
| Portland
| 19961226 UTA 99 94
| Karl Malone (24)
| Karl Malone (9)
| John Stockton (11)
| Delta Center19,911
| 21–6
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 28
| December 28
| Philadelphia
| 19961228 UTA 110 84
| Karl Malone (29)
| Karl Malone (14)
| John Stockton (14)
| Delta Center19,911
| 22–6
|- bgcolor="#ffcccc"
| 29
| December 30
| @ L.A. Clippers
| 19961230 LAC 101 115
| John Stockton (23)
| Karl Malone (10)
| John Stockton (7)
| Los Angeles Memorial Sports Arena7,865
| 22–7
Utah Jazz January #149BC7 #644A9C 5 0 4 6
|- bgcolor="#ffcccc"
| 30
| January 2
| @ San Antonio
| 19970102 SAS 80 83
| Karl Malone (26)
| Karl Malone (7)
| John Stockton (11)
| Alamodome15,220
| 22–8
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 31
| January 4
| Miami
| 19970104 UTA 83 80
| Karl Malone (28)
| Karl Malone (12)
| John Stockton (11)
| Delta Center19,911
| 23–8
|- bgcolor="#ffcccc"
| 32
| January 6
| @ Chicago
| 19970106 CHI 89 102
| Karl Malone (27)
| Karl Malone (11)
| John Stockton (11)
| United Center23,882
| 23–9
|- bgcolor="#ffcccc"
| 33
| January 8
| @ Milwaukee
| 19970108 MIL 112 119 1
| Karl Malone (38)
| Karl Malone (19)
| Karl Malone (8)
| Bradley Center13,682
| 23–10
|- bgcolor="#ffcccc"
| 34
| January 9
| @ Toronto
| 19970109 TOR 96 110
| Karl Malone (24)
| Karl Malone (10)
| John Stockton (14)
| SkyDome16,517
| 23–11
|- bgcolor="#ffcccc"
| 35
| January 11
| @ Detroit
| 19970111 DET 77 87
| Karl Malone (19)
| Greg Ostertag (10)
| John Stockton (10)
| The Palace of Auburn Hills21,454
| 23–12
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 36
| January 13
| @ Philadelphia
| 19970113 PHI 97 96 1
| Karl Malone (28)
| Karl Malone (9)
| John Stockton (7)
| CoreStates Center13,438
| 24–12
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 37
| January 16
| Phoenix
| 19970116 UTA 95 91
| Karl Malone (28)
| Karl Malone (11)
| John Stockton (9)
| Delta Center19,911
| 25–12
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 38
| January 17
| @ Vancouver
| 19970117 VAN 106 68
| Karl Malone (30)
| Howard, Keefe (9)
| Jeff Hornacek (8)
| General Motors Place15,173
| 26–12
|- bgcolor="#ffcccc"
| 39
| January 19
| @ Portland
| 19970119 POR 96 102
| Jeff Hornacek (22)
| Karl Malone (10)
| John Stockton (10)
| Rose Garden21,166
| 26–13
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 40
| January 20
| Cleveland
| 19970120 UTA 94 74
| Karl Malone (32)
| Karl Malone (8)
| Hornacek, Stockton (6)
| Delta Center19,911
| 27–13
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 41
| January 22
| @ Phoenix
| 19970122 PHO 111 99
| Karl Malone (41)
| Karl Malone (8)
| John Stockton (12)
| America West Arena19,023
| 28–13
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 42
| January 25
| @ Houston
| 19970125 HOU 105 100 1
| Karl Malone (27)
| Karl Malone (17)
| John Stockton (11)
| The Summit16,285
| 29–13
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 43
| January 28
| Denver
| 19970128 UTA 114 99
| Karl Malone (28)
| Malone, Ostertag (13)
| John Stockton (9)
| Delta Center19,911
| 30–13
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 44
| January 30
| Atlanta
| 19970130 UTA 102 96
| Karl Malone (32)
| Karl Malone (15)
| John Stockton (11)
| Delta Center19,911
| 31–13
Utah Jazz February #149BC7 #644A9C 7 1 2 2
|- bgcolor="#ffcccc"
| 45
| February 1
| @ Dallas
| 19970201 DAL 97 100
| Karl Malone (36)
| Malone, Russell (11)
| John Stockton (13)
| Reunion Arena17,185
| 31–14
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 46
| February 3
| Washington
| 19970203 UTA 111 89
| Karl Malone (24)
| Karl Malone (10)
| Howard Eisley (9)
| Delta Center19,911
| 32–14
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 47
| February 5
| @ Seattle
| 19970205 SEA 99 95
| Karl Malone (26)
| Greg Ostertag (10)
| John Stockton (13)
| KeyArena17,072
| 33–14
|- align="center"
|colspan="9" bgcolor="#bbcaff"|All-Star Break
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 48
| February 11
| @ Sacramento
| 19970211 SAC 120 98
| Karl Malone (30)
| Karl Malone (8)
| John Stockton (16)
| ARCO Arena17,317
| 34–14
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 49
| February 13
| Portland
| 19970213 UTA 110 86
| Karl Malone (24)
| Karl Malone (11)
| John Stockton (13)
| Delta Center19,911
| 35–14
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 50
| February 15
| Dallas
| 19970215 UTA 99 84
| Jeff Hornacek (18)
| Greg Ostertag (12)
| John Stockton (8)
| Delta Center19,911
| 36–14
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 51
| February 18
| San Antonio
| 19970218 UTA 113 105
| Karl Malone (37)
| Greg Ostertag (10)
| John Stockton (10)
| Delta Center19,911
| 37–14
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 52
| February 20
| Boston
| 19970220 UTA 122 105
| Karl Malone (34)
| Karl Malone (16)
| John Stockton (11)
| Delta Center19,911
| 38–14
|- bgcolor="#ffcccc"
| 53
| February 23
| Seattle
| 19970223 UTA 87 89 1
| Karl Malone (32)
| Karl Malone (10)
| John Stockton (12)
| Delta Center19,911
| 38–15
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 54
| February 25
| New York
| 19970225 UTA 110 99
| Karl Malone (33)
| Greg Ostertag (13)
| John Stockton (12)
| Delta Center19,911
| 39–15
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 55
| February 27
| Toronto
| 19970227 UTA 118 114
| Karl Malone (32)
| Karl Malone (13)
| John Stockton (13)
| Delta Center19,911
| 40–15
|- bgcolor="#ffcccc"
| 56
| February 28
| @ Portland
| 19970228 POR 105 115
| Karl Malone (30)
| Karl Malone (6)
| John Stockton (11)
| Rose Garden21,253
| 40–16
Utah Jazz March #149BC7 #644A9C 4 0 10 1
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 57
| March 2
| @ Vancouver
| 19970302 VAN 93 86
| Bryon Russell (20)
| Malone, Ostertag (9)
| John Stockton (16)
| General Motors Place16,415
| 41–16
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 58
| March 3
| @ Golden State
| 19970303 GSW 111 104
| Karl Malone (41)
| Karl Malone (7)
| Stockton, Hornacek (8)
| San Jose Arena16,334
| 42–16
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 59
| March 5
| Dallas
| 19970305 UTA 96 65
| Karl Malone (20)
| Greg Ostertag (13)
| Karl Malone (7)
| Delta Center19,911
| 43–16
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 60
| March 7
| Detroit
| 19970307 UTA 95 88
| Karl Malone (41)
| Greg Ostertag (10)
| Stockton, Hornacek (9)
| Delta Center19,911
| 44–16
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 61
| March 9
| @ Minnesota
| 19970309 MIN 115 106
| Karl Malone (36)
| Karl Malone (11)
| John Stockton (9)
| Target Center19,006
| 45–16
|- bgcolor="#ffcccc"
| 62
| March 11
| @ Atlanta
| 19970311 ATL 99 106
| Karl Malone (24)
| Karl Malone (7)
| John Stockton (10)
| The Omni14,475
| 45–17
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 63
| March 12
| @ New Jersey
| 19970312 NJN 117 102
| John Stockton (31)
| Greg Ostertag (19)
| John Stockton (11)
| Continental Airlines Arena13,150
| 46–17
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 64
| March 14
| @ Indiana
| 19970314 IND 105 96
| Karl Malone (38)
| Karl Malone (11)
| John Stockton (10)
| Market Square Arena16,618
| 47–17
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 65
| March 15
| @ Washington
| 19970315 WSB 100 93
| Karl Malone (32)
| Karl Malone (10)
| John Stockton (12)
| US Airways Arena18,756
| 48–17
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 66
| March 17
| @ Charlotte
| 19970317 CHH 114 93
| Karl Malone (37)
| Karl Malone (9)
| Jeff Hornacek (12)
| Charlotte Coliseum24,042
| 49–17
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 67
| March 19
| @ Boston
| 19970319 BOS 113 100
| Karl Malone (32)
| Karl Malone (12)
| John Stockton (10)
| Fleet Center16,770
| 50–17
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 68
| March 22
| L.A. Clippers
| 19970322 UTA 107 94
| Karl Malone (20)
| Greg Ostertag (14)
| John Stockton (12)
| Delta Center19,911
| 51–17
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 69
| March 23
| @ Denver
| 19970323 DEN 120 103
| Karl Malone (35)
| Karl Malone (8)
| John Stockton (15)
| McNichols Sports Arena10,723
| 52–17
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 70
| March 28
| Milwaukee
| 19970328 UTA 101 96
| Karl Malone (31)
| Greg Ostertag (18)
| John Stockton (10)
| Delta Center19,911
| 53–17
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 71
| March 29
| @ San Antonio
| 19970329 SAS 115 102
| Karl Malone (33)
| Karl Malone (12)
| John Stockton (10)
| Alamodome25,705
| 54–17
Utah Jazz April #149BC7 #644A9C 7 0 3 1
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 72
| April 2
| Sacramento
| 19970402 UTA 118 87
| Karl Malone (23)
| Greg Ostertag (11)
| Howard Eisley (9)
| Delta Center19,911
| 55–17
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 73
| April 4
| Vancouver
| 19970404 UTA 106 79
| Karl Malone (16)
| Greg Ostertag (10)
| John Stockton (12)
| Delta Center19,911
| 56–17
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 74
| April 6
| @ Golden State
| 19970406 GSW 114 100
| Karl Malone (30)
| Karl Malone (8)
| John Stockton (13)
| San Jose Arena15,167
| 57–17
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 75
| April 7
| San Antonio
| 19970407 UTA 116 93
| Karl Malone (26)
| Greg Ostertag (9)
| John Stockton (8)
| Delta Center19,911
| 58–17
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 76
| April 9
| L.A. Lakers
| 19970409 UTA 101 89
| Karl Malone (29)
| Byron Russell (9)
| John Stockton (10)
| Delta Center19,911
| 59–17
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 77
| April 11
| Houston
| 19970411 UTA 104 83
| Karl Malone (28)
| Karl Malone (13)
| John Stockton (8)
| Delta Center19,911
| 60–17
|- bgcolor="#ffcccc"
| 78
| April 13
| @ L.A. Lakers
| 19970413 LAL 98 100
| John Stockton (30)
| Greg Ostertag (13)
| John Stockton (9)
| Great Western Forum17,505
| 60–18
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 79
| April 15
| @ Phoenix
| 19970415 PHO 127 122
| Karl Malone (31)
| Karl Malone (11)
| John Stockton (14)
| America West Arena19,023
| 61–18
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 80
| April 17
| Golden State
| 19970417 UTA 106 93
| Karl Malone (20)
| three players tied (4)
| three players tied (6)
| Delta Center19,911
| 62–18
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 81
| April 19
| Minnesota
| 19970419 UTA 101 89
| Karl Malone (26)
| Ostertag, Russell (8)
| John Stockton (12)
| Delta Center19,911
| 63–18
|- bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 82
| April 20
| @ Sacramento
| 19970420 SAC 113 109
| Karl Malone (18)
| Karl Malone (6)
| John Stockton (14)
| ARCO Arena17,317
| 64–18
UTA 1997
Playoffs
Utah Jazz 1997 yes #644A9C #149BC7
Utah Jazz Western Conference First Round yes no yes #149BC7 #644A9C 2 0 1 0
|- align="center" bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 1
| April 24
| L.A. Clippers
| 19970424 UTA 106 86
| Karl Malone (27)
| Karl Malone (10)
| John Stockton (17)
| Delta Center19,911
| 1–0
|- align="center" bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 2
| April 26
| L.A. Clippers
| 19970426 UTA 105 99
| Karl Malone (39)
| Karl Malone (11)
| Hornacek, Stockton (4)
| Delta Center19,911
| 2–0
|- align="center" bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 3
| April 28
| @ L.A. Clippers
| 19970428 LAC 104 92
| Karl Malone (26)
| Karl Malone (13)
| John Stockton (13)
| Los Angeles Memorial Sports Arena11,747
| 3–0
|-
Utah Jazz Western Conference Semifinals no yes #149BC7 #644A9C 3 0 1 1
|- align="center" bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 1
| May 4
| L.A. Lakers
| 19970504 UTA 93 77
| Karl Malone (23)
| Karl Malone (13)
| Jeff Hornacek (7)
| Delta Center19,911
| 1–0
|- align="center" bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 2
| May 6
| L.A. Lakers
| 19970506 UTA 103 101
| Karl Malone (31)
| Karl Malone (11)
| Hornacek, Stockton (7)
| Delta Center19,911
| 2–0
|- align="center" bgcolor="#ffcccc"
| 3
| May 8
| @ L.A. Lakers
| 19970508 LAL 84 104
| Jeff Hornacek (26)
| Karl Malone (10)
| John Stockton (8)
| Great Western Forum17,505
| 2–1
|- align="center" bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 4
| May 10
| @ L.A. Lakers
| 19970510 LAL 110 95
| Bryon Russell (29)
| Bryon Russell (10)
| John Stockton (11)
| Great Western Forum17,505
| 3–1
|- align="center" bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 5
| May 12
| L.A. Lakers
| 19970512 UTA 98 93 1
| Karl Malone (32)
| Karl Malone (20)
| John Stockton (10)
| Delta Center19,911
| 4–1
|-
Utah Jazz Western Conference Finals no yes #149BC7 #644A9C 3 0 1 2
|- align="center" bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 1
| May 19
| Houston
| 19970519 UTA 101 86
| Karl Malone (21)
| Karl Malone (13)
| John Stockton (13)
| Delta Center19,911
| 1–0
|- align="center" bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 2
| May 21
| Houston
| 19970521 UTA 104 92
| John Stockton (26)
| Karl Malone (15)
| John Stockton (12)
| Delta Center19,911
| 2–0
|- align="center" bgcolor="#ffcccc"
| 3
| May 23
| @ Houston
| 19970523 HOU 100 118
| Karl Malone (21)
| Greg Ostertag (9)
| John Stockton (10)
| The Summit16,285
| 2–1
|- align="center" bgcolor="#ffcccc"
| 4
| May 25
| @ Houston
| 19970525 HOU 92 95
| Malone, Stockton (22)
| Karl Malone (10)
| John Stockton (8)
| The Summit16,285
| 2–2
|- align="center" bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 5
| May 27
| Houston
| 19970527 UTA 96 91
| Karl Malone (29)
| Karl Malone (14)
| John Stockton (6)
| Delta Center19,911
| 3–2
|- align="center" bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 6
| May 29
| @ Houston
| 19970529 HOU 103 100
| John Stockton (25)
| Greg Ostertag (14)
| John Stockton (13)
| The Summit16,285
| 4–2
|-
Utah Jazz NBA Finals no yes #149BC7 #644A9C 2 1 0 3
|- align="center" bgcolor="#ffcccc"
| 1
| June 1
| @ Chicago
| 19970601 CHI 82 84
| Karl Malone (23)
| Karl Malone (15)
| John Stockton (12)
| United Center24,544
| 0–1
|- align="center" bgcolor="#ffcccc"
| 2
| June 4
| @ Chicago
| 19970604 CHI 85 97
| Karl Malone (20)
| Karl Malone (13)
| John Stockton (7)
| United Center24,544
| 0–2
|- align="center" bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 3
| June 6
| Chicago
| 19970606 UTA 104 93
| Karl Malone (37)
| Karl Malone (10)
| John Stockton (12)
| Delta Center19,911
| 1–2
|- align="center" bgcolor="#ccffcc"
| 4
| June 8
| Chicago
| 19970608 UTA 78 73
| Karl Malone (23)
| Karl Malone (10)
| John Stockton (12)
| Delta Center19,911
| 2–2
|- align="center" bgcolor="#ffcccc"
| 5
| June 11
| Chicago
| 19970611 UTA 88 90
| Karl Malone (19)
| Greg Ostertag (15)
| Karl Malone (6)
| Delta Center19,911
| 2–3
|- align="center" bgcolor="#ffcccc"
| 6
| June 13
| @ Chicago
| 19970613 CHI 86 90
| Karl Malone (21)
| Greg Ostertag (8)
| John Stockton (5)
| United Center24,544
| 2–4
|-
UTA 1997 yes
NBA Finals
In the Finals, the Jazz faced the Chicago Bulls losing the first two games on the road. However, the Jazz upon arriving at the Delta Center continued their home court advantage by taking Game 3, and Game 4 to even the series. With a chance to take a series lead in Game 5, the Jazz were beaten by a heroic performance by Michael Jordan playing with the flu like ailment 90–88. Wise Mike Weary Jordan Wills His Team Just One Away The New York Times June 12, 1997 https://www.nytimes.com/1997/06/12/sports/weary-jordan-wills-his-team-just-one-away.html May 13, 2022 Howard-Cooper Scott Jordan Makes Jazz Air Sick Los Angeles Times June 12, 1997 https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1997-06-12-sp-2600-story.html November 19, 2022 Adande J.A. Ill Star Lifts Bulls in Game 5 The Washington Post June 12, 1997 https://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/sports/nba/longterm/jordan/articles/mjsick97.htm May 27, 2023 Armour Terry Queasy Does It Chicago Tribune June 12, 1997 https://www.chicagotribune.com/news/ct-xpm-1997-06-12-9706120226-story,amp.html January 14, 2022 Rock Brad Jordan Mere Mortal? Don't You Believe It! Deseret News June 12, 1997 https://www.deseret.com/1997/6/12/19317319/jordan-mere-mortal-don-t-you-believe-it December 27, 2022 Back in Chicago for Game 6, the Jazz battled the Bulls tightly before falling by four points as the Bulls won their fifth title in seven years.http://www.sportsecyclopedia.com/nba/utah/jazz.html Utah Jazz (1979-Present) Sports Ecyclopedia Sportsecyclopedia.com 2015-12-17 December 8, 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20151208142527/http://www.sportsecyclopedia.com/nba/utah/jazz.html dead
Player statistics
Season
Player GP GS MPG FG% 3FG% FT% RPG APG SPG BPG PPGShandon Anderson 65 0 16.4 .462 .511 .687 2.8 .8 .4 .1 5.9Antoine Carr 82 0 17.8 .483 .000 .780 2.4 .9 .3 .8 7.4Howard Eisley 82 0 13.2 .451 .278 .787 1.0 2.4 .5 .1 4.5Greg Foster basketball 79 12 11.6 .453 .667 .831 2.4 .4 .1 .3 3.5Jeff Hornacek 82 82 31.6 .482 .369 .899 2.9 4.4 1.5 .3 14.5Stephen Howard basketball† 42 0 8.3 .573 .597 1.8 .2 .3 .2 3.6Adam Keefe basketball 62 0 14.8 .513 .000 .689 3.5 .5 .5 .2 3.8Karl Malone 82 82 36.6 .550 .000 .755 9.9 4.5 1.4 .6 27.4Chris Morris basketball 73 1 13.4 .408 .274 .722 2.2 .6 .4 .3 4.3Ruben Nembhard† 8 0 11.8 .414 .000 .800 1.0 1.5 .8 .0 4.0Greg Ostertag 77 70 23.6 .515 .000 .678 7.3 .4 .3 2.0 7.3Bryon Russell 81 81 31.2 .479 .409 .701 4.1 1.5 1.6 .3 10.8John Stockton 82 82 35.3 .548 .422 .846 2.8 10.5 2.0 .2 14.4Brooks Thompson† 2 0 4.0 .000 .0 .5 .0 .0 .0Jamie Watson basketball† 13 0 9.9 .440 .333 .833 1.4 .8 .8 .2 2.5
Playoffs
Player GP GS MPG FG% 3FG% FT% RPG APG SPG BPG PPGShandon Anderson 18 0 16.4 .439 .417 .714 2.7 .7 .6 .1 4.6Antoine Carr 20 0 14.0 .482 .750 2.0 .5 .3 .5 4.9Howard Eisley 20 0 10.9 .500 .474 .964 .9 2.0 .2 .0 5.6Greg Foster basketball 20 0 15.5 .389 .250 .867 2.8 .6 .2 .4 4.2Jeff Hornacek 20 20 35.2 .433 .358 .876 4.5 3.7 1.1 .2 14.6Stephen Howard basketball 5 0 2.6 .500 .750 .2 .0 .2 .0 1.8Adam Keefe basketball 8 0 7.4 .333 .667 2.0 .3 .3 .1 1.0Karl Malone 20 20 40.8 .435 .500 .720 11.4 2.9 1.4 .8 26.0Chris Morris basketball 20 0 8.8 .400 .320 .600 1.6 .3 .4 .2 2.9Greg Ostertag 20 20 23.0 .410 .743 6.9 .3 .5 2.4 4.7Bryon Russell 20 20 37.9 .461 .356 .721 4.6 1.4 1.1 .3 12.3John Stockton 20 20 37.0 .521 .380 .856 3.9 9.6 1.7 .3 16.1
Player statistics citation:
Awards and records
Awards
Karl Malone, NBA Most Valuable Player Award
Karl Malone, All-NBA First Team
John Stockton, All-NBA Third Team
Karl Malone, NBA All-Defensive First Team
John Stockton, NBA All-Defensive Second Team
Records
Transactions
Trades
Free agents
52%
Additions
Player Signed Former team
Subtractions
Player Left New team
References
Category:Utah Jazz seasons
Category:Western Conference (NBA) championship seasons
Utah
Utah
Utah