McLeod Enjoys First NBA Start

November 04, 2004 | Men's Basketball

Nov. 4, 2004

Salt Lake City, Utah - Former BGSU All-American Keith McLeod made his first career NBA start and helped the Utah Jazz to a 104-78 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers. McLeod played 33 games last season with the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Last night against the Lakers, he played 29 minutes and had six points, eight assists and a steal. He also had just one turnover at point guard.

The Jazz will play on Friday at Golden State.

Last year, he averaged 2.7 points and 1.8 assists in a reserve role for Minnesota.

"It felt a little different, McLeod said. "I'm just trying to focus on coming out strong and doing a good job. I'm used to bringing energy off the bench, but now it's important to get us off to a good start."

He managed it. With three assists and a steal in his game-opening nine-minute stint, McLeod led Utah to an early 20-8 lead.