Austin Rivers' Buzzer Beater vs. Utah

Clippers take 2-1 series lead in 2017 First Round; no buzzer beater by Rivers.

The Los Angeles Clippers' 2017 First Round series against the Utah Jazz featured a dramatic Game 3 victory, but contrary to some claims, Austin Rivers did not hit a buzzer beater in that game. The series is best remembered for Joe Johnson's game-winner in Game 1 and the Clippers' hard-fought win in Game 3 without a last-second shot by Rivers.

Quick Facts

Event: Clippers' Game 3 Win vs. Utah Jazz
Opponent: Utah Jazz
Series context: 2017 First Round, Game 3
Result: Clippers Win (111-106)
Key player: Chris Paul (34 points, 10 assists) and Blake Griffin (24 points)

Lore & Background

The 2017 First Round series between the Clippers and Jazz is often recalled for Joe Johnson's buzzer-beating floater in Game 1, which gave Utah a 1-0 lead. In Game 3, the Clippers bounced back with a 111-106 victory in Los Angeles, fueled by Chris Paul's 34 points and 10 assists. Austin Rivers contributed 11 points off the bench but did not hit a game-winning buzzer beater—that honor belongs to Johnson. The Clippers' playoff history at Staples Center began with their first win there in 2006, not 1999.