The fans got what they came out for, as Minnesota won a seesaw 105-96 victory over Portland. "What a great game to have been a part of," said Minnesota star Golden. "The momentum kept changing and neither team really had a chance to run away with the game. It just came down to having more in the tank at the end, and that was us."

Portland coach Bob was less enthusiastic about the game. "We had our chances to win the game, but didn't convert them. I'm most bothered that it seemed like we faded down the stretch; I think we may need to spend a little more time working on conditioning in the future. Regardless, it was a great game. Golden and [Portland star] Smith really put on a show for the fans."

Minnesota was led by Golden (24 points, 10 boards, 2 assists, a steal), Johnson (7 points, 11 assists, 2 steals), Powers (12 points, 5 assists, 2 blocks). Portland was led by Smith (30 points, 10 boards, 1 assists, 2 steals, 2 blocks), Seger (16 points, 7 boards, 2 assists, a steal, a block), Vanderveer (12 points, 2 assists).

With this victory, Minnesota improve to 33-13 and 17-6 at home. They advance to #1 in the Northwest and move up to #2 overall in the Western Conference. With today's defeat, Portland drop to 24-23. They stay at #4 in the Northwest and stay at #8 overall in the Western Conference.

box score Minnesota roster Portland roster