Houston are ahead of Portland in the Western Conference First Round 3-2 with a 89-84 win over Portland that turned some heads. Said one broadcaster, "I didn't know Houston were that good, quite frankly. They really haven't done much all season, but the way they came in and handled Portland showed what they're capable of."

The thoughts were echoed by Portland coach Bob. "We had pretty thorough film sessions coming into the game, and we never saw them execute that well. [Houston coach] Bob did a great job getting them ready, and we'll have to see if this was a one-time performance or if they can maintain that level of play."

Houston was led by Sims (27 points, 6 boards, 4 assists, 2 blocks), Fox (16 points), Lewis (17 points). Portland was led by Smith (15 points, 10 assists, a steal, 3 blocks), Jackson (18 points, 13 boards, 2 assists, 2 blocks), Kimbell (22 points, 2 assists, a steal, a block).

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