The Portland Trail Blazers are a professional basketball team based in Portland, Oregon. They compete in the Northwest Division of the NBA’s Western Conference.
Known for their passionate fan base and dedicated community, the Trail Blazers embody the spirit of the Pacific Northwest.
Founded in 1970, the Blazers quickly became one of the league’s most beloved franchises. Their colors – red, black, and white – symbolize strength, passion, and unity.
Fans affectionately call the team the “Blazers,” and their home games are famous for their intensity and enthusiasm.
Moreover, the team’s slogan, “Rip City,” originates from an off-the-cuff remark by announcer Bill Schonely during a 1971 game. The phrase has since become a rallying cry and a proud symbol of Portland basketball culture.
Where Do the Blazers Play?
The Trail Blazers play their home games at the Moda Center, located in Portland’s Rose Quarter district. Opened in 1995, the arena can seat over 19,000 fans for basketball games.
The Moda Center offers one of the loudest and most passionate atmospheres in the NBA. Fans are known for their loyalty and energy, creating an electric environment every night.
Additionally, the Moda Center also hosts concerts, hockey games, and community events, making it a central part of Portland’s cultural scene.
History of the Portland Trail Blazers
The Portland Trail Blazers joined the NBA in 1970 as an expansion franchise. Success came quickly. In 1977, led by Bill Walton, the Blazers captured their first and only NBA Championship by defeating the Philadelphia 76ers. That team’s selfless play and strong chemistry set a standard for future generations.
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Portland remained a consistent contender. Under coach Rick Adelman, the Blazers reached the NBA Finals in 1990 and 1992, powered by Clyde Drexler, Terry Porter, and Buck Williams. Although they fell short both times, those teams established the franchise as one of the West’s most formidable forces.
In 2000, the Blazers made another memorable run to the Western Conference Finals against the Los Angeles Lakers. The series became one of the most iconic in NBA history.
Portland led by 15 points in Game 7, but a late Lakers comeback, highlighted by the famous Kobe Bryant-to-Shaquille O’Neal alley-oop, ended the Blazers’ title hopes.
Despite the heartbreaking loss, that team, featuring Scottie Pippen, Rasheed Wallace, and Damon Stoudamire, remains one of the most talented in franchise history.
In the mid to late 2000s, the Blazers went through a rebuilding period before finding stability with stars like Brandon Roy and LaMarcus Aldridge. Roy, known for his clutch play, became a fan favorite before injuries cut his career short.
The modern era has been defined by Damian Lillard, one of the most loyal and dynamic players in the league. Drafted in 2012, Lillard led the Blazers to multiple playoff appearances and became known for his deep shooting and leadership.
His iconic buzzer-beaters have created some of the most memorable moments in franchise history.
Interesting Facts & Team Milestones
- The Trail Blazers have made the NBA playoffs 37 times, among the highest in league history.
- The team has one of the NBA’s most passionate fan bases, selling out over 800 consecutive home games between 1977 and 1995.
- “Rip City” is one of the most famous nicknames in professional sports.
- The Blazers won their first championship only seven years after joining the NBA.
Notable Portland Trail Blazers Players
The Blazers have been home to several stars who left lasting marks on the game:
Bill Walton
1977 Finals MVP and one of the most skilled big men of his era.
Clyde Drexler
Ten-time All-Star and 1992 Olympic gold medalist known as “Clyde the Glide.”
Terry Porter
Reliable point guard and key leader during the team’s Finals runs.
Rasheed Wallace
Versatile forward who brought toughness and energy to the early 2000s squads. Wallace could be one of the NBA’s enforcers if he needed to be, as he is known for his highly spirited outbursts.
Brandon Roy
Explosive guard and three-time All-Star before injuries shortened his career.
LaMarcus Aldridge
Smooth-shooting power forward and cornerstone of the 2010s.
Damian Lillard
Franchise icon, multiple-time All-Star, and one of the NBA’s most clutch performers. Lillard is one of the NBA’s best shooters, often relied upon to hit game-sealing shots during the waning moments of games.
Notable Portland Trail Blazers Coaches
The Blazers’ success over the years has been shaped by skilled and respected coaches:
Jack Ramsay (1976-1986)
Guided the team to its only championship in 1977 and established a winning culture.
Rick Adelman (1988-1994)
Led Portland to two NBA Finals appearances and sustained playoff success.
Mike Dunleavy (1997-2001)
Took the team to the 2000 Western Conference Finals.
Terry Stotts (2012-2021)
Helped the Blazers reach the 2019 Western Conference Finals under Damian Lillard’s leadership.
Chauncey Billups (2021-present)
Focuses on player development and guiding a new era for the franchise.