Utah Jazz notebook: Rookie Matthews gaining trust, minutes and phone calls

If he keeps it up, Wesley Matthews might need to bump up his cell-phone minutes and text-messaging plan.

It was late, but Matthews' family and friends tuned in to TNT on Thursday to see him set NBA career-highs during a 12-point, three-rebound, two-steal performance.

They apparently liked what they saw, too.

Some late-hour infomercial operators probably don't get as many calls as Matthews did. The Marquette product's night-owl fans flooded his message box after Utah's 113-99 win.

"As soon as I turned my phone back on, I had about 40 messages," Matthews said, smiling. "I said, 'Ah, this is going to be a long night.' "

A good, long night, of course — kinda like the one he had on the court.

Matthews' followers were also rewarded for staying up late. His playing stint lasted 25 minutes, and included the final 2:59 of the third and the entire fourth quarter.

"I feel like I'm just getting more and more comfortable," Matthews said, "and I keep building more and more trust amongst this program."

Jerry Sloan credits the undrafted rookie for beginning that process in July when he participated with the Jazz's summer-squad team. His stats weren't flashy in Orlando, but Matthews impressed the coach where it really counted — in practices.

That's why the 23-year-old's quick start to the season — a continuation of his solid preseason — isn't surprising to Sloan. It is quite timely, though, with all of the injuries to Utah's wings.

"He's got talent. ... And he's worked hard," Sloan said. "It's kind of amazing. He runs the floor. He's not afraid to take the ball inside, get on top of the basket and (do) those things that give you a chance."

After going scoreless in limited action his first two NBA games, Matthews' offensive output has steadily increased — from six to eight to his TNT-televised showing that included strong drives and jumpers.

Matthews' offensive confidence is increasing, which Sloan likes. But he loves how the athletic player shows flashes of defensive scrappiness a la Matt Harpring.

"He's a young guy and seems to have an idea about guarding people," Sloan said. "He's not afraid to get up and get after them a little bit."

Added Matthews, who didn't mind mixing it up with some Spurs: "I'm never the type to back down from any situation, any challenge. ... I like to see myself as a tougher player, too."