September 1, 2004

The Portland Trail Blazers have signed restricted free agent forward Darius Miles to a multi-year contract. As per team policy, terms of the contract were not announced.

“We had identified Darius as a top priority this off-season and we are delighted to know that we have concluded a long-term commitment to such a talented player,” said Trail Blazers General Manager John Nash. “At his age, he not only represents the present but the future of the franchise. Darius has worked hard in this off-season to build upon the success that he enjoyed under (Portland Head Coach) Maurice Cheeks last year and we anticipate a tremendous season from him.”

The 22-year-old came to Portland in a trade with the Cleveland Cavaliers on January 21, 2004. He averaged 12.6ppg, 4.6rpg, 2.0apg and 1.0spg in 42 games with the Trail Blazers while shooting 52.6% from the field and 70.2% from the free throw line. Miles scored in double-figures in 31 of his 42 games and had 20 or more points six times, including a career-high 31 points in leading the Trail Blazers to a victory in Boston on March 31, 2004. His performance in that contest included a career-best 13 field goals.

The 6-foot-9 Miles was originally drafted by the L.A. Clippers in the first round (third pick overall) of the 2000 NBA Draft after a stellar prep career at East St. Louis (IL) High School. He owns career averages of 9.8ppg, 5.3rpg and 2.0apg in 309 NBA games.

The Trail Blazers open the 2004-05 regular season at Golden State on Wednesday, November 3rd before returning to Portland to host the L.A. Clippers in the Rose Garden on Friday, November 5th.

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