January 21, 2005

The Portland Trail Blazers have waived Qyntel Woods. Team President Steve Patterson took a moment to answer some questions that fans have regarding the decision.

Blazers.com: Why did you make the decision to release Qyntel Woods now?

Steve: Paul Allen made a commitment to this community and I have said from the time I came to this organization that our fans and this city can have the expectation that we will do the right thing. In light of today’s developments, it is clear that the Trail Blazers and Qyntel Woods must part ways. We are confident that this action is both justified and appropriate


Blazers.com: Why did it take so long to make the determination that you wanted to waive Qyntel?

Steve: It was important to our organization to ensure that we had obtained accurate and comprehensive information. We felt it vital to cooperate with local law enforcement officials and conduct our own investigation before making a final decision. That investigation is now complete. Qyntel has spoken and we have made our decision.


Blazers.com: Did Paul Allen make this final decision?

Steve: Paul is very engaged and aware of the decision being made. I have 100% support from Paul and he is 100% committed to creating a franchise that we all can be proud of. His mission hasn’t changed and he is in complete alignment with this decision.


Blazers.com: Have you spoken to Qyntel and if so, what was his reaction?

Steve: No, we have invested enough time talking to Qyntel, enough is enough. We have spoken with his lawyer and his agent Raymond Brothers, though as a part of the process.


Blazers.com: You originally suspended Qyntel without pay; does this mean you will now pay his salary since you have waived him and do you anticipate arbitration?

Steve: Qyntel was fully aware of the expectations and player conduct standards set forth by this franchise. Based upon the number of incidents and issues he has been involved in since we drafted him, we do not feel he has fulfilled his contractual obligations and do not plan to pay him for the period of suspension or for the remainder of his contract.

Soon after we suspended Qyntel, the NBA Players Association notified us he was appealing the suspension. We anticipated that reaction and are prepared to arbitrate this matter.


Blazers.com: What is Darnell Valentine’s role in this decision and how will he be working with the other players and community related to this topic?

Steve: Darnell continues to help implement the franchise's goal of overall player development by providing support on and off the court for every member of the team. Darnell works with all of our community partners including the positive and long-standing relationship that exists between the Trail Blazers and the Oregon Humane Society. Darnell will also continue to meet regularly with our players and travel with the team. He is always available to discuss issues like this related to the players and franchise.


Blazers.com: Many fans are asking if another team can now add Qyntel to their roster?

Steve: Yes, another team can either claim him off waivers or they can sign him after he clears waivers. Qyntel will still have to serve his 5 game drug suspension handed down by the NBA before he can play.


Blazers.com: Do the Trail Blazers anticipate having to pay Qyntel for his time this season and how does the arbitration work?

Steve: We are prepared to go through arbitration and will only have to pay him if we lose during arbitration. If that occurs, we would then take the issue to court before paying him. Arbitration for this matter will go exactly as any other legal proceeding.


Blazers.com: Can Qyntel's position on the roster be filled?

Steve: No, because he was on the suspended list. His waiver does not create a new roster spot.