Thoughts on the 1977 Portland Trailblazers

The eventual 1977 NBA champion Portland Trail Blazers did not have the home advantage in both the semi-finals nor finals.

They were a truly great team, even better the year after, but injuries especially to their great center, Bill Walton cost them a chance to repeat as NBA champions.

Some memories of that championship season follow.

In 1977, Portland went (10-0) at home in the playoffs.

Herman Gilliam was a big factor in their win at L.A. vs the Jerry West coached Lakers in game 2 of their semi-final series.

Recently fired as Brooklyn Nets coach, a fine player, Lionel Hollins can take solace in his big game vs the Chicago Bulls, in the decisive game of the 1977 preliminary series vs the Chicago Bulls.

Maurice Lucas, pictured above, was a truly great player on those Portland teams.