Portland downed Denver today 100-91, thanks to a solid effort by star Smith. The game lived up to its hype, with both teams having their moments but neither side able to dominate for any extended length of time. Said Smith after the game, "This one could have easily gone either way. We're just glad that we came out with the win." Coach Bob echoed the sentiments, saying "Denver came out strong and ready to play, and we knew from the start that it would be a battle out there. Probably if we played them 10 times, both sides would get five wins. But we got the win today, and that's what counts."

Denver players were disappointed after the game, and coach Bob had his hands full keeping their spirits up. "They know they played their hearts out today, and that it wasn't enough. That's a tough feeling. Especially for Slayton, who had one heck of a game but couldn't carry the whole team on his shoulders."

Portland was led by Smith (23 points, 11 assists, a steal), Vanderveer (18 points, 19 boards, 1 assists), Jackson (23 points, 6 boards, 3 assists, 2 blocks). Denver was led by Slayton (18 points, 7 boards, 0 assists, 3 blocks), Beachum (12 points, 5 assists, a steal, 2 blocks), Ferguson (18 points, 8 boards, 1 assists, a block).

Portland stand at 1-0 and 1-0 at home with the win. They stay at #1 in the Northwest and remain at #2 overall in the Western Conference. With today's loss, Denver fall to 0-1. They move up to #2 in the Northwest and remain at #10 overall in the Western Conference.

box score Portland roster Denver roster