If TV didn't exist, if newspapers ignored out-of-town news, if radio didn't report the scores, just think how optimistic Jazz fans would be today.
   
Everything the Jazz optimistically pledged about the 2002-03 team -- new faces ready to make big contributions, the Hall of Famers showing no signs of slowing down, a roster short on selfish stars and deep on hustle-play cameos -- played out as though scripted by the front office in the Jazz's 101-92 victory over Golden State in Saturday's home opener.
   
The leading scorers were Karl Malone with 26 points and John Stockton with 15, and offseason additions Mark Jackson, Matt Harpring and Calbert Cheaney combined for 26 points, 17 rebounds and 13 assists off the bench. Even returnees DeShawn Stevenson, Jarron Collins and Scott Padgett each had their moments.