The Utah Jazz are feeling the absence of former guard Collin Sexton — not just for his stats, but for the fire and intensity he brought to every game.
In their 126–103 defeat to the Charlotte Hornets on Sunday, Sexton’s first matchup against his old team, the Jazz were reminded of exactly what they’re missing.
Remembering Sexton’s Energy and Personality
Before tipoff, Jazz coach Will Hardy reflected on Sexton’s time in Utah, recalling moments that defined his energy and competitiveness.
“There was the time he started his own ‘defense, defense’ chant during a scrimmage — while he was still on the court,” Hardy said with a smile. He also remembered Sexton throwing down a 360 dunk in practice right after being told to “play solid.”
“Then he landed and looked at the bench like, ‘That’s not what you were talking about,’” Hardy said.
These stories highlight what Sexton meant to the Jazz — a relentless drive that pushed both himself and his teammates.
Jazz Flat Without Sexton’s Spark
Utah’s sluggish energy on Sunday told the story. Charlotte, one of the league’s lower-ranked teams and missing LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller, went on a 30–9 run to open the second quarter.
Coach Hardy didn’t hide his frustration: “Our energy fell off. There’s no excuse for that.”
The Jazz looked a step slow and out of sync, especially in the areas Sexton once dominated — hustle, communication, and passion.
Rookie guard Keyonte George summed it up simply: “Energy, effort, competitiveness. Those are things we can control.”
Sexton’s Influence Still Felt
Sexton, who had 10 points and 12 assists for Charlotte, spoke warmly about his former team. “I had so much fun with the Jazz,” he said. “I learned a lot about myself there.”
George remembers how Sexton’s enthusiasm was contagious — from cheering wildly on the sidelines to slapping his face to psych himself up before defensive plays.
“Will talks about sacrifice — that’s a sacrifice,” George said. “Somebody has to fill that void. All of us have to sacrifice something.”
Lessons in Commitment
For George, Sexton’s example extended far beyond game nights. Last summer, he arrived at the Jazz facility late one night expecting to train alone — but Sexton was already there.
“I saw what that level of commitment looks like,” George said. “That’s what it takes to be great in this league.”
Now, George is off to a strong start to his second NBA season, scoring 25 points and dishing seven assists against Charlotte. Still, he knows there’s more to give.
“Playing hard and competing hard — that’s how you respect the game,” he said.
Moving Forward
Utah’s five-game road trip has started poorly, with two losses by a combined 45 points. And while the Jazz still have talent, the emotional glue Sexton provided isn’t easy to replace.
“There are a lot of good guys in the NBA,” Hardy said. “He’s one of the best.”
Sexton’s absence is felt not just in the box score — but in the heartbeat of a team still searching for its rhythm.
