Chapple made 40 points, helping Portland escape by the narrowest of margins by beating LA Lakers 101-98 in overtime. "Not a stellar game on our part," commented Portland coach Bob. "We gave them way too many chances and they nearly made us pay. But I think our guys started to wake up near the end and realize it wasn't going to be an easy win. Chapple especially kept us in it until the rest of the guys decided to step it up."

LA Lakers coach Andreas Helmle was clearly disappointed with the final score. "So close..."

Portland was led by Chapple (40 points, 2 assists, a steal, a block), Ortega (34 points, 5 boards, 0 assists), Williams (5 points, a steal). LA Lakers was led by Bailey (29 points, 22 boards, 1 assists, 3 blocks), Carter (12 points, 8 boards, 2 assists, a steal, 3 blocks), Walz (11 points, a steal).

Portland improve to 7-8 and 7-0 at home. They stay at #4 in the Northwest and stay at #10 overall in the Western Conference. After today's defeat, LA Lakers stand at 3-13. They stay at #5 in the Pacific and stay at #15 overall in the Western Conference.

box score Portland roster LA Lakers* roster