Zubac, Clippers power past Jazz despite rough opening quarter

The Clippers overcame a 13-point deficit to notch their 29th win.

(Photo credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images)

INGLEWOOD, Calif. -- It’s been a season of historic firsts for LA Clippers center Ivica Zubac.

First time averaging a double-double.

First time posting 30 double-doubles in a single season.

And, on Saturday night, the first time in the Croatian’s nine-year NBA career that he’s had a game with at least 25 points, 15 rebounds, and five assists.

“I always knew that I could produce if given more minutes and more touches in the post. I always knew I could do it, so once the opportunity came, I was ready,” Zubac told reporters as he sat in the chair at his locker following the Clippers’ 130-110 victory over the Utah Jazz.

“Worked hard every summer, especially this summer, worked a lot in the post because I knew that I was gonna see more touches there,” Zubac continued.

“It’s just about opportunity, I feel like, for a lot of guys in this league, it’s about right situation, right opportunity. A lot of guys can produce more than they’re doing, but once you’re stuck in one role, that’s what you gotta do to stay on the court. But I always felt like I can do more.”