November 26, 2002

Blazers President and General Manager Bob Whitsitt and Head Coach Maurice Cheeks addressed the media this afternoon, in response to the recent arrest of Ruben Patterson on domestic assault charges and last week’s incident regarding Damon Stoudamire and Rasheed Wallace.

Both Cheeks and Whitsitt expressed their deep dissatisfaction with the events of the past four days and reassured Blazers fans that these kinds of behaviors are not condoned within the Blazers organization.

“We are embarrassed, frustrated and extremely disappointed with the current situation. I take all responsibility with anything that happens to this team,” stated Whitsitt. “We are committed to putting together a winning basketball season and myself, along with Paul Allen apologize to the fans of the Blazers.”

Coach Cheeks expressed his frustration and concern, “This is very disappointing to me and to other members of this team. The fans have been sensational and I hope that they will continue to support us.” He also stated, “I am not condoning the actions of these players, but I still believe in them. The other guys on the team believe in them and the organization believes in them.”

In regards to disciplinary action, Whitsitt explained that the players union has very strict rules on when a team can take action against its players. When the issue is marijuana, the Blazers organization has no power to punish a player. With Patterson's arrest, if the court finds him guilty, then either the team or the NBA will take appropriate action.

Ruben Patterson will not play in tonight’s game. Whitsitt explained that, “Ruben is working on family matters and we do not know when he will he return.”