Portland brushed past an overmatched LA Clippers team today 113-98. Always politically correct, Portland 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 Smith's effort helped set the pace. LA Clippers is a team we've had success against in the past, which I think gave us a bit more confidence coming in."

LA Clippers coach Bob was a little more frank. "We knew going in that we'd need a miracle to beat Portland, 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."

Portland was led by Smith (30 points, 3 assists, 2 steals, 2 blocks), Jackson (12 points, 17 boards, 2 assists, 2 blocks), Seger (15 points, 11 boards, 2 assists). LA Clippers was led by Dolly (27 points, 3 blocks), Kay (20 points, 5 boards, 3 assists, a block), Celaya (12 points, 9 boards, 1 assists, a steal, a block).

Portland are now 2-1. They advance to #2 in the Northwest and advance to #4 overall in the Western Conference. LA Clippers fall to 2-1 and 2-1 at home. They drop to #2 in the Pacific and fall to #5 overall in the Western Conference.

box score Portland roster LA Clippers roster