February 9, 2005

The Trail Blazers released the following statement today regarding the article in the Oregonian:

"Today there is a disturbing allegation in the newspaper that we have not been standing by our pledge to hold our players accountable for their behavior. That allegation is flat out unfair and not true. Ever since I arrived here in Portland, my actions, from rehabilitating Damon, to trading Wallace and Wells and waiving Qyntel Woods have clearly demonstrated our commitment to restoring pride in this franchise and holding our entire organization accountable. An isolated piece of information regarding our dealings with Darius Miles is being used to paint a very negative picture. I can tell you that there is a much larger context to our ongoing conversations, which occur everyday with players, coaches, the union, agents and staff. These conversations are complex and intense and take many twists and turns. Rest assured that the outcome will be in alignment with our stated values. It is impossible to run this team effectively if we have to discuss the details of every conversation publicly. All we ask is that you judge us on the totality of what we have done since I arrived here."

Steve Patterson
Trail Blazers President