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30 Facts About Thunder Vs. Trail Blazers

Charo Stites

Written by Charo Stites

Published: 19 Nov 2025

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Source: Oregonlive.com

Ever wondered who holds the upper hand in the Thunder vs. Trail Blazers rivalry? This matchup has seen some intense battles, buzzer-beaters, and unforgettable moments. From the days of Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook to Damian Lillard's clutch performances, these games never fail to entertain. Both teams have passionate fanbases, making every encounter electric. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just curious about the history, this list of 30 facts will give you a deeper look into one of the NBA's most exciting rivalries. Buckle up for a thrilling ride through stats, records, and memorable highlights!

Table of Contents
01Thunder vs. Trail Blazers: A Rivalry to Remember
02Memorable Playoff Battles
03Star Players and Legendary Performances
04Coaching and Strategy
05Fan Engagement and Home Court Advantage
06Records and Milestones
07Final Whistle

Thunder vs. Trail Blazers: A Rivalry to Remember

The Oklahoma City Thunder and the Portland Trail Blazers have a storied history in the NBA. Their matchups are always thrilling, filled with intense moments and unforgettable performances. Here are some fascinating facts about this exciting rivalry.

  1. The Thunder and Trail Blazers have faced each other over 200 times in regular-season games.

  2. The rivalry began in 2008 when the Seattle SuperSonics relocated to Oklahoma City and became the Thunder.

  3. The Trail Blazers were founded in 1970, making them one of the older franchises in the NBA.

  4. The Thunder's first win against the Trail Blazers came on November 1, 2008.

  5. The Trail Blazers have a higher overall win percentage in their matchups against the Thunder.

Memorable Playoff Battles

Playoff games between these two teams are always intense, with both sides giving their all to advance. Here are some key facts about their playoff encounters.

  1. The Thunder and Trail Blazers first met in the playoffs during the 2019 NBA season.

  2. The Trail Blazers won the 2019 playoff series 4-1, advancing to the Western Conference Semifinals.

  3. Damian Lillard's iconic 37-foot buzzer-beater in Game 5 of the 2019 series is one of the most memorable moments in NBA playoff history.

  4. Russell Westbrook and Paul George were the Thunder's star players during the 2019 playoff series.

  5. The 2019 series was marked by intense trash-talking and physical play, adding to the rivalry's drama.

Star Players and Legendary Performances

Both teams have had their share of star players who have delivered legendary performances in their matchups. Here are some standout moments.

  1. Kevin Durant scored a career-high 51 points against the Trail Blazers on February 19, 2012.

  2. Damian Lillard has multiple 50-point games against the Thunder, showcasing his scoring prowess.

  3. Russell Westbrook recorded a triple-double in a game against the Trail Blazers on March 7, 2017.

  4. Clyde Drexler, a Trail Blazers legend, had numerous standout games against the Thunder's predecessor, the Seattle SuperSonics.

  5. Paul George scored 47 points in a game against the Trail Blazers on February 11, 2019.

Coaching and Strategy

Coaching plays a crucial role in the success of any team. Here are some interesting facts about the coaches who have led these teams.

  1. Billy Donovan was the Thunder's head coach during their 2019 playoff series against the Trail Blazers.

  2. Terry Stotts was the Trail Blazers' head coach from 2012 to 2021, leading them through many battles against the Thunder.

  3. Scott Brooks, another former Thunder coach, had a successful tenure from 2008 to 2015.

  4. The Trail Blazers' current head coach, Chauncey Billups, brings a wealth of experience as a former NBA player.

  5. Both teams have employed various defensive and offensive strategies to counter each other's strengths.

Fan Engagement and Home Court Advantage

Fans play a significant role in creating the electric atmosphere during games. Here are some facts about fan engagement and home court advantage.

  1. The Thunder's home arena, Paycom Center, is known for its loud and passionate fans.

  2. The Trail Blazers' home court, Moda Center, is one of the most intimidating venues for visiting teams.

  3. Both teams have dedicated fan bases that travel to away games to support their teams.

  4. The "Rip City" chant is a staple at Trail Blazers' home games, energizing the players and fans alike.

  5. Thunder fans are known for their "Thunder Up" chant, creating a raucous environment for opponents.

Records and Milestones

Records and milestones add to the rich history of this rivalry. Here are some notable achievements.

  1. The Trail Blazers hold the record for the longest winning streak in their matchups, with 11 consecutive wins from 2012 to 2014.

  2. The Thunder's longest winning streak against the Trail Blazers is 7 games, achieved from 2010 to 2011.

  3. Damian Lillard became the fastest player in NBA history to reach 1,500 three-pointers during a game against the Thunder.

  4. Russell Westbrook set an NBA record for the most triple-doubles in a season (42) during the 2016-2017 season, with several coming against the Trail Blazers.

  5. The Trail Blazers' 2019 playoff series win marked their first series victory since 2000, ending a long drought.

Final Whistle

Thunder vs. Trail Blazers games always bring excitement. From historic playoff battles to jaw-dropping buzzer-beaters, these matchups never disappoint. Fans get to witness incredible athleticism, strategic plays, and unforgettable moments. Both teams have passionate fan bases that make each game electric. Whether you're rooting for the Thunder's relentless energy or the Trail Blazers' sharpshooting, there's always something to cheer about.

Remember, these games aren't just about the final score. They're about the stories, the rivalries, and the sheer love of basketball. So next time these two teams face off, grab some popcorn, sit back, and enjoy the show. You never know what amazing fact or record might be made. Keep these 30 facts in mind, and you'll appreciate the game even more. Basketball is more than a sport; it's a thrilling experience.

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