40 Facts About Portland Trail Blazers

Portland Trail Blazers: A Storied Franchise

The Portland Trail Blazers have a rich history filled with memorable moments, legendary players, and passionate fans. Here are some fascinating facts about this iconic NBA team.

1. The Portland Trail Blazers were established in 1970 as an expansion team in the NBA.
2. The team's name was chosen through a contest, with "Trail Blazers" winning out of more than 10,000 entries.
3. The Blazers' team colors are red, black, and white.
4. Their mascot, Blaze the Trail Cat, is a fan favorite at games and events.
5. The Blazers play their home games at the Moda Center, which opened in 1995.

Championship Glory and Playoff Runs

The Blazers have had their share of success, including a memorable championship run.

6. The Blazers won their only NBA Championship in 1977.
7. Bill Walton was named Finals MVP during their championship run.
8. The team has made the playoffs more than 30 times in their history.
9. The Blazers reached the NBA Finals again in 1990 and 1992 but lost both times.
10. They have won six division titles.

Legendary Players and Coaches

Portland has been home to some of the greatest players and coaches in NBA history.

11. Clyde Drexler, known as "The Glide," is one of the most iconic Blazers players.
12. Drexler was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 2004.
13. Bill Walton, another Hall of Famer, played for the Blazers from 1974 to 1978.
14. Terry Porter, a two-time All-Star, spent 10 seasons with the Blazers.
15. Damian Lillard, the current face of the franchise, is a six-time All-Star.

Memorable Moments and Records

The Blazers have had their share of unforgettable moments and impressive records.

16. Damian Lillard's series-clinching buzzer-beater against the Oklahoma City Thunder in 2019 is one of the most memorable shots in NBA history.
17. Lillard holds the franchise record for most points in a game with 61.
18. The Blazers set an NBA record by making 23 three-pointers in a single game in 2021.
19. Clyde Drexler is the franchise's all-time leading scorer with 18,040 points.
20. The Blazers once had a 21-game home winning streak during the 2008-2009 season.

Community and Fan Engagement

The Blazers are known for their strong connection with their fans and community.

21. The team has a dedicated fan base known as "Rip City."
22. The term "Rip City" was coined by announcer Bill Schonely during a game in 1971.
23. The Blazers have a strong commitment to community service and philanthropy.
24. The team's "Make It Better" foundation focuses on education, health, and wellness.
25. The Blazers host an annual "Fan Fest" to engage with their supporters.

Unique Trivia and Fun Facts

Here are some lesser-known facts that make the Blazers unique.

26. The Blazers were the first NBA team to draft a player directly from high school, selecting Darryl Dawkins in 1975.
27. The team has retired 11 jersey numbers, honoring their greatest players.
28. The Blazers once had a Sasquatch as a secondary mascot named "Squatch."
29. The team's original logo featured a pinwheel design, symbolizing the motion and speed of basketball.
30. The Blazers' first-ever draft pick was Geoff Petrie, who went on to win Rookie of the Year in 1971.

Challenges and Comebacks

The Blazers have faced their share of challenges but have always shown resilience.

31. The team endured a 21-game losing streak during the 1972-1973 season.
32. Injuries have plagued the Blazers, with key players like Bill Walton and Brandon Roy suffering career-altering injuries.
33. Despite these setbacks, the Blazers have consistently bounced back and remained competitive.
34. The team made a remarkable comeback in the 2018-2019 season, reaching the Western Conference Finals.
35. The Blazers have a reputation for developing young talent and building strong rosters.

International Influence and Diversity

The Blazers have embraced diversity and have had a global impact on the game.

36. The team has had players from over 20 different countries.
37. Arvydas Sabonis, a Lithuanian legend, played for the Blazers from 1995 to 2001.
38. The Blazers have a strong following in international markets, particularly in Europe and Asia.
39. The team has participated in NBA Global Games, playing preseason games in countries like China and Spain.
40. The Blazers' diverse roster and international influence have helped grow the game of basketball worldwide.

Portland Trail Blazers: A Legacy of Excellence

The Portland Trail Blazers have a rich history filled with memorable moments and legendary players. From their championship win in 1977 to the rise of stars like Clyde Drexler and Damian Lillard, the Blazers have consistently been a team to watch. Their dedicated fan base and community involvement make them more than just a basketball team; they’re a pillar of Portland. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the NBA, the Blazers offer a compelling story of perseverance and success. Keep an eye on this team—they’re always ready to surprise and inspire.