PORTLAND, Ore. (January 13, 2017) – It still stands as the crown jewel in the Portland Trail Blazers legacy as an NBA franchise – the 1977 NBA World Championship. On Wednesday, January 25 during a home game against the rival Los Angeles Lakers, the Trail Blazers will celebrate the 40th anniversary of that achievement by honoring the players, coaches, staff and front office who led that history-making season. Among the Trail Blazers greats in attendance will be NBA Hall-of-Famer Bill Walton and former teammates Lionel Hollins, Bob Gross, Larry Steele, Johnny Davis, Dave Twardzik, Lloyd Neal, Corky Calhoun, Wally Walker and Robin Jones. Tip-off for the nationally-televised game on ESPN is set for 7:30 p.m. at Moda Center.
Trail Blazers Founding President Harry Glickman will join Trail Blazers Ambassador and Hall of Fame broadcasting honoree Bill Schonely in celebrating players from that roster, which captured an NBA title in only the seventh year of the team’s existence. There will also be family members representing the late Dr. Jack Ramsay, head coach of the 1977 Trail Blazers; along with Maurice Lucas and Herm Gilliam, both of whom have also passed away since that championship season.
“Milestone moments are special, and we look forward to celebrating the 40th anniversary of one of the most memorable moments in Trail Blazers history,” said Chris McGowan, President & CEO of the Trail Blazers and Rose Quarter. “It’s been several years since many of the players, staff and front office personnel have been together here in Portland. For those of us who lead today’s Trail Blazers organization, we consider it an honor to share in this celebration.”
The itinerary for members of the 1977 Trail Blazers includes a private “Rip City Welcome” dinner and reunion luncheon; and autograph sessions and photo opportunities for fans with the 1977 Championship trophy. A special display honoring Coach Ramsay will also be unveiled inside Dr. Jack’s, the Rose Quarter eatery named for the Hall of Fame coach.
At halftime versus the Lakers, fans in attendance can see an on-court tribute to that 1977 Trail Blazers team, which is forever etched in the NBA archives. Special memorabilia and other commemorative items marking the occasion will also be available at Rip City Clothing Company. Immediately following the game, fans are encouraged to remain inside Moda Center for a special post-game chat at center court with Schonely and Walton.
A limited number of tickets still remain for this Trail Blazers game against the Lakers. For more information and to purchase tickets, log on to trailblazers.com/77champs. For season tickets and other ticketing inquiries, please call 844-RIP-CITY.