30 Facts About Trail Blazers Vs. Spurs

The Rivalry Begins

The Trail Blazers and Spurs have a storied history that dates back decades. Their matchups have provided basketball fans with countless memorable moments.

1. The Portland Trail Blazers and San Antonio Spurs first faced off on October 22, 1976. The Blazers won 115-111.
2. The rivalry intensified in the late '90s and early 2000s, with both teams frequently meeting in the playoffs.
3. The Spurs have a better overall record against the Blazers, winning more games in their head-to-head matchups.
4. The Blazers' longest winning streak against the Spurs is 7 games, achieved during the 1990-91 season.
5. The Spurs' longest winning streak against the Blazers is 13 games, spanning from 2010 to 2013.

Legendary Players

Both teams have been home to some of the greatest players in NBA history. These athletes have left an indelible mark on the rivalry.

6. Clyde Drexler, a Hall of Famer, played for the Blazers from 1983 to 1995 and was a key figure in their battles against the Spurs.
7. Tim Duncan, known as "The Big Fundamental," played his entire career with the Spurs from 1997 to 2016 and often dominated the Blazers.
8. Damian Lillard, the current face of the Blazers, has had numerous clutch performances against the Spurs.
9. Manu Ginobili, a Spurs legend, was known for his crafty play and clutch shots in games against the Blazers.
10. LaMarcus Aldridge played for both teams, starting with the Blazers before joining the Spurs in 2015.

Memorable Games

Certain games between the Blazers and Spurs stand out for their intensity and drama. These matchups have become part of NBA lore.

11. On April 20, 1990, the Blazers defeated the Spurs 111-98 in Game 1 of the Western Conference First Round.
12. The Spurs eliminated the Blazers in the 1999 Western Conference Finals, winning the series 4-0.
13. On February 19, 2014, the Blazers won a thrilling double-overtime game against the Spurs, 129-119.
14. The Spurs' 2005 victory over the Blazers, 125-104, featured a career-high 53 points from Tony Parker.
15. In 2014, the Spurs defeated the Blazers in the Western Conference Semifinals, winning the series 4-1.

Coaching Legends

The rivalry has also seen some of the greatest coaches in NBA history on the sidelines, guiding their teams through epic battles.

16. Gregg Popovich, the Spurs' head coach since 1996, is widely regarded as one of the best coaches in NBA history.
17. Jack Ramsay, who coached the Blazers to their only NBA Championship in 1977, had many memorable games against the Spurs.
18. Terry Stotts, who coached the Blazers from 2012 to 2021, led the team to multiple playoff appearances against the Spurs.
19. Mike Dunleavy Sr., who coached the Blazers from 1997 to 2001, had several intense matchups with the Spurs.
20. Rick Adelman, another former Blazers coach, also had his share of battles with the Spurs during his tenure from 1989 to 1994.

Playoff Showdowns

The playoffs have often been the stage for some of the most intense and high-stakes games between the Blazers and Spurs.

21. The Blazers and Spurs have met in the playoffs six times, with the Spurs winning five of those series.
22. In the 1993 Western Conference First Round, the Blazers defeated the Spurs 3-1.
23. The 1999 Western Conference Finals saw the Spurs sweep the Blazers 4-0 en route to their first NBA Championship.
24. The 2002 Western Conference First Round was a hard-fought series, with the Spurs winning 3-2.
25. In the 2014 Western Conference Semifinals, the Spurs defeated the Blazers 4-1.

Records and Achievements

Both teams have set numerous records and achieved significant milestones in their matchups.

26. The highest-scoring game between the two teams occurred on January 2, 1984, with the Blazers winning 147-140.
27. The Spurs hold the record for the largest margin of victory in the rivalry, defeating the Blazers 116-69 on March 25, 2015.
28. Damian Lillard holds the record for the most points scored by a Blazers player against the Spurs, with 43 points on March 15, 2019.
29. Tim Duncan holds the record for the most rebounds in a single game against the Blazers, grabbing 27 on January 22, 2010.
30. The Blazers and Spurs have both won multiple division titles, with the Spurs having 22 and the Blazers 6.

Final Whistle

The Trail Blazers vs. Spurs rivalry has given fans countless memorable moments. From epic comebacks to buzzer-beaters, these games never disappoint. Both teams have rich histories, legendary players, and passionate fanbases. Whether you're a die-hard Blazers fan or a loyal Spurs supporter, the excitement is undeniable.

Remember, the stats and facts we've covered only scratch the surface. There's always more to learn and appreciate about these two iconic teams. So next time they face off, you'll have a deeper understanding of the history and significance behind every play.

Stay tuned for more thrilling matchups and keep your eyes peeled for the next game-changing moment. Basketball is more than just a sport; it's a story of perseverance, rivalry, and unforgettable moments. Enjoy the game!