Philadelphia star Ferguson led his team to a win today in a key game against Portland. Although standings were at stake, the game was as much about bragging rights as anything. The teams have a long history against each other that began when coaches Bob and Bob traded insults after an apparently intentional injury to one of Bob's players. Although Bob has long denied that there was any malicious intent, Philadelphia fans don't believe it and turn out in large numbers whenever Portland comes to town.

Philadelphia was led by Ferguson (10 points, 9 boards, 1 assists, 3 blocks), Norman (23 points, a block), Blunt (16 points, 5 boards, 3 assists, a block). Portland was led by Smith (18 points, 2 steals), Mcneil (21 points, 5 boards, 1 assists, 2 steals, a block), Vanderveer (9 points, 9 boards, 2 assists, a steal, a block).

Philadelphia jump to 21-13 with today's win. They hold at #1 in the Atlantic and hold at #2 overall in the Eastern Conference. Portland are now 17-17 and 8-8 at home after today's defeat. They move down to #5 in the Northwest and fall to #9 overall in the Western Conference.

box score Philadelphia roster Portland roster