The J-Notes
Fansided

Ranking the five best All-Star moments in Utah Jazz history

By Ryan Aston

HOUSTON - FEBRUARY12: Karl Malone #26 of the Western Conference All Stars celebrates after presented the MVP trophy of the 1989 All Star Game played at the Houston Astrodome on February 12, 1989 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images)
HOUSTON - FEBRUARY12: Karl Malone #26 of the Western Conference All Stars celebrates after presented the MVP trophy of the 1989 All Star Game played at the Houston Astrodome on February 12, 1989 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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5) Pistol Pete Becomes Franchise’s First All-Star: February 13, 1977

While the New Orleans Jazz worked hard to emulate the Los Angeles Lakers in their early years, acquiring players like Gail Goodrich, hiring Elgin Baylor as head coach, and bringing in “Hot Rod” Hundley to call the action (all L.A. staples), their results were anything but Laker-like.

During the team’s first three years, the Jazz failed to finish with more than 38 wins in any season. They wouldn’t hit 40 or make the playoffs until moving to Salt Lake City several years later.

Still, the sensational play of “Pistol” Pete Maravich was the very essence of showtime.

Back in 1977, Maravich became the franchise’s first All-Star, putting up 10 points, four assists, and four steals for the Eastern Conference in the All-Star Game. In the end, the West prevailed 125-124, but Pistol Pete’s inclusion was still a major moment for the Jazz.

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