Denver brushed past an overmatched Portland team today 117-97. Always politically correct, Denver coach Bob stated simply "We just managed to do what we needed to get done out there. The players had solid execution all around, and Phillips's effort helped set the pace. Portland is a team we've had success against in the past, which I think gave us a bit more confidence coming in."

Portland coach Bob was a little more frank. "We knew going in that we'd need a miracle to beat Denver, and we didn't get it. They have better players and a better coach, and did what they were supposed to do out there. I'm just glad the final score wasn't even worse."

Denver was led by Phillips (21 points, 10 boards, 4 assists), White (8 points, 13 boards, 0 assists, 2 blocks), Banks (19 points). Portland was led by Smith (6 points, 4 steals), Simmons (21 points, a steal, a block), Jackson (12 points, 1 assists, a steal, 5 blocks).

Denver are now 28-18 after today's win. They remain at #2 in the Northwest and hold at #5 overall in the Western Conference. Portland are now 31-14 and 14-7 at home with today's loss. They hold at #1 in the Northwest and stay at #2 overall in the Western Conference.

box score Denver roster Portland roster