A great game by Jackson led Portland to a 100-89 defeat of Utah. Although Utah certainly planned for Jackson in their pre-game strategy, stopping him during the game turned out to be more of a challenge. "We thought we knew how to beat Portland, but we were dead wrong," said Utah coach Coach Young. "We figured we'd try to put them out of their game plan and try to limit Jackson's effectiveness, but it simply didn't happen - he was just too good."

Said Jackson, "I knew I had a target on my back, and took it as a challenge. If they're going to change their game plan to stop me, it gives me that much more desire to step up and perservere. Anyway, they know what I can do now, so we'll see if they dare try this strategy again." Tune in next time.

Portland was led by Jackson (35 points, 8 boards, 1 assists, a steal, 2 blocks), Smith (20 points, 5 assists), Kimbell (22 points, 0 assists, a block). Utah was led by Feaster (12 points, 9 boards, 0 assists, 2 blocks), Patton (17 points, 1 assists), Cummings (12 points, 8 boards, 1 assists).

With today's victory, Portland stand at 56-22. They clinched the Northwest championship and remain at #2 overall in the Western Conference. After today's loss, Utah fall to 44-35 and 25-15 at home. They hold at #3 in the Northwest and stay at #6 overall in the Western Conference.

box score Portland roster Utah* roster