From Portland Trail Blazers On SI · · 1m 30s
Blazers Flood Moda Center, Drown Suns in Season Opener
Portland Trail Blazers dominate Phoenix Suns 124-83 in season opener with 19 3-pointers.
In brief
Portland Trail Blazers dominate Phoenix Suns 124-83 in season opener with 19 3-pointers. Portland Trail Blazers defeat Phoenix Suns 124-83 in season opener with Damian Lillard scoring 25 points and 19 three-pointers. Originally reported by Portland Trail Blazers On SI.
Blazers Open Strong
Portland Trail Blazers start with an 11-0 run to lead 43-12 after six minutes.
First Quarter Dominance
Blazers lead 72-39 at halftime with a 33-point advantage, their largest ever in a season opener.
Lillard's Performance
Damian Lillard scores 25 points, hits 19 three-pointers on 40.4 percent shooting.
Team Contributions
Deni Avdija adds 18 points, 10 rebounds, and four assists while Ja Morant debuts with 14 points.
Rebounding Strength
Donovan Clingan and Robert Williams combine for 17 rebounds, Scoot Henderson scores 15 points.
Lillard's Fan Connection
Lillard's crowd reaction before the game was so intense fans couldn't hear him speak.
Lillard's Fan Bond
Lillard says fans' pre-game reception was joyful and he has a strong connection with Portland supporters.
Coach Nori's Emotional Moment
Coach Nori felt emotional seeing fans' reaction to Lillard and asked if the ovation was for him or Lillard.
Nori's Family Presence
Nori's parents traveled from Middletown, Ohio to attend the game, a full-circle moment for him.
Nori's First Win
Nori's first career win with the Trail Blazers exceeded expectations for the team and staff.
Lillard's Unique Connection
Lillard has a rare connection with Portland fans and was drafted by the city, like Stephen Curry.
The bottom line
Portland Trail Blazers defeat Phoenix Suns 124-83 in season opener with Damian Lillard scoring 25 points and 19 three-pointers.
