Jazz Insider Sounds Off on ‘Dedicated' Fan Base in Trying Times
It's been a rocky road for the Utah Jazz since the trade deadline. The Jazz have dropped 10 out of 12 games, and the thought of making a post-season appearance has been put to bed.
But despite the second straight season in which wins and losses are taking a backseat to development, the fans continue to show up. The Jazz rank 14th in the league in attendance, averaging 18,206 fans per contest, and have sold out in 282 straight games.
Jazz play-by-play announcer Craig Bolerjack talked about the dedicated fan base in a challenging season when he joined The Drive with Spencer Checketts on ESPN 700.
"I've always been amazed all the years I've covered the Jazz just how dedicated the fan fase is and how it continues to be that way. I've been in so many arenas where half empty is a good night, or half full. However you want to define it, but I think Jazz fans have to pat themselves on the back, ya know. They love this franchise — most. There's some that will toss in the towell as well. I get it. It's an expensive adventure to go to a Jazz game."
Jazz fans certainly love their team. One factor that helps is being the only major sports franchise in the state. Whether you live in St. George or Salt Lake City, the Jazz are the only option in Utah.
Showing up to the arena makes a difference in how Utah has performed this year. Even though Utah ranks 22nd in overall winning percentage this season, they’re 14th when it comes to playing on its home court with a 19-12 record.
Also, as a franchise, Utah boasts a 68% career-winning percentage at home. The only franchises that have done better are the Boston Celtics, Los Angeles Lakers, and the No. 1 ranked San Antonio Spurs, according to fadeawayworld.net. Another interesting fact is that the Jazz led the NBA in attendance during the Covid-stricken season of 2020.
That said, it hasn't been an easy ride these past two seasons for a fan base that isn't accustomed to a franchise not contending for a playoff spot. Jazz fans have had more division this season regarding the franchise's direction. It's a divided bunch on whether Utah should have been sellers at this year's trade deadline.
But if you attend a Jazz game, it is clear that the fans want a win and aren't worried about conveying Utah’s top 10 protected first-round pick this year. Only in Utah can a game with no post-season implications for the home team have a playoff-like atmosphere. This was displayed in Utah’s Wednesday night's loss to the Chicago Bulls.
So, will Jazz fans keep coming to the arena if the losing seasons continue to pile up? That remains to be seen, but for now, there are no signs of a fan base slowing down to support their hometown team.
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