Aussies in NBA: Joe Ingles steals the spotlight

In more ways than one, Joe Ingles stole the spotlight yesterday. Not only did he play his best game of the season and record a season-high 15 points, he was a nuisance on the defensive end and recorded a career-high six steals.

Slo-Mo Joe got the start for the second consecutive game, with Gordon Hayward still out injured, and was at his entertaining best on both ends of the court. In his 27 minutes of game time, Ingles recorded 15 points (3/5 3FG), 6 steals, 4 rebounds, 2 assists and 2 turnovers. The Jazz defeated the Suns with ease, 103-69.

Ingles was everywhere on the court and it is great reward for the hard work he has put in to see his shots falling once again. Good shooters don't stay cold forever.

Jinglin' Joe did have a chance for a rare break-away dunk, but sadly he opted for the lay-up. All of those steals obviously wore the legs out!

JOE INGLES BREAKAWAY LAYUP IT’S LIT MATE

— Zach Harper (@talkhoops) March 18, 2016

The highlights below showcase just how important Ingles was for the Jazz. He got the team going early with his energy and willingness to try to create something out of nothing on the defensive end.

https://youtu.be/-HqMm30Jiu0

The Jazz are undefeated this season with Jinglin' Joe in the starting line-up. Whilst Utah are obviously a better team with Hayward playing, Ingles is proving his worth to the front office, coaches and his teammates during this stretch.

With Hayward likely to return very shortly, Ingles needs to take this momentum with him as he returns to the second unit. If he can continue to have confidence in his shot and take educated risks on defence in order to create turnovers, the Jazz are a much better team.