Jackson went on fire for 40 points, leading Portland to a 113-104 win over Dallas. "Take away Jackson, and we'd have won this thing," said Dallas coach Bob. "It was a very close game most of the way, and he was the one that put Portland over the top. I thought we had the right game plan and executed well. What's sad is that I don't know what we'd do differently next time, except for hoping for a more mortal performance by him."

Portland coach Bob was happy for the win, but concerned about the team's play. "I didn't think this was a very good team win. Our players seemed tempted to sit around and watch Jackson do his stuff. That was enough for the win today, but on another day maybe Jackson will be injured or our opponents can counter him, and we'll need the rest of the players to step up as well."

Portland was led by Jackson (40 points, 8 boards, 3 assists, 2 steals, 2 blocks), Smith (16 points, 14 assists, a steal), Vanderveer (18 points, 10 boards, 3 assists, 2 blocks). Dallas was led by Perry (29 points, 11 boards, 1 assists, a steal, 3 blocks), Olguin (6 points, 20 assists), Mack (22 points, 5 boards, 0 assists, 2 steals, 2 blocks).

Portland stand at 23-9. They remain at #1 in the Northwest and remain at #2 overall in the Western Conference. Dallas are now 18-15 and 6-8 at home. They hold at #2 in the Southwest and remain at #7 overall in the Western Conference.

box score Portland roster Dallas roster