The NBA G League continues to grow, this time in Portland.
On Wednesday, the Portland Trailblazers acquired the rights to add a team in the city, which will make it the league’s 31st franchise. The team, which has yet to be named, is scheduled to make its debut in the 2023-24 season in the Chiles Center on the University of Portland’s campus.
“I’m excited to welcome Jody Allen and the Trail Blazers ownership group to the NBA G League family,” said NBA G League President Shareef Abdur-Rahim in a statement. “The NBA G League continues to grow to meet the developmental demands of NBA teams, and today’s announcement is further proof of the value the league provides to the NBA every day. I can’t wait to watch the team tip off at the Chiles Center next season.”
While the team name, brand identity, front office and coaching staff will be revealed at a later date, the Trailblazers are excited to launch their G League franchise in the city.
“It was very important to our organization to enter the G League with an affiliate here in Portland and strategically strengthen our dedication to player development,” said Joe Cronin, Portland Trail Blazers General Manager. “I would especially like to thank Jody Allen, who is aligned with Dewayne Hankins and myself, to make it a priority to have this team ready for next season as it will serve not only as a developmental tool for players but also for aspiring coaches and staff while we continue to be a mainstay in the community as a whole.”
The Trailblazers and Rip City have a strong connection with the NBA G League.
Nine team players from this past season had G League experience and since the league was established in 2001, Portland has called up a total of 20 players. The team has also assigned 27 players to the NBA G League and a few of Portland’s coaches have G League coaching experience.
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