April 5, 2003

Blazers Owner Paul Allen sent a statement to the fans and media about the team:

As an owner, I take player behavior very seriously. We all expect a lot from our team, and the Blazers have to be accountable for doing what's right for the team, the fans and the community -- and players will indeed be held responsible.

Let there be no mistake that unacceptable conduct will not be condoned. Everyone at the Blazers will tackle these issues head on -- and we are prepared to suspend players, levy heavy fines and trade or release a player if that becomes necessary.

The community deserves a team of which we can all be proud and I am fully committed to improving the Blazers' conduct on and off the court.

- Paul Allen