In one of the most important games of the season for both teams, Portland upstaged Houston 121-99. Showing more glitter than a Brittany Spears concert, perfect Portland execution, a brilliant game by Kimbell, and impeccable play-calling by Bob provided all the right ingredients for a big win.

Laboy was key for Houston, but after the game he looked like somebody had just run over his dog. "I thought we could do it. The whole game I was still thinking we were going to win. I guess that's the difference between thinking it and doing it. Give Portland credit - they are nothing but class. I just feel sorry for coach Bob. He had us ready and we let him down."

Portland was led by Kimbell (26 points, a block), Vanderveer (21 points, 11 boards, 0 assists), Smith (9 points, 2 steals, a block). Houston was led by Laboy (25 points), Lewis (25 points, 0 assists, a steal), Sims (10 points, 4 assists, 3 blocks).

Portland stand at 10-8 and 4-4 at home. They hold at #3 in the Northwest and improve to #7 overall in the Western Conference. Houston drop to 9-9 with today's defeat. They hold at #3 in the Southwest and move down to #10 overall in the Western Conference.

box score Portland roster Houston roster