30 players who define each NBA franchise
By Adam McGee
Honorable Mentions: LaMarcus Aldridge, Terry Porter, Bill Walton
It’s a common theme among some of the NBA’s smaller market franchises, that their greatest and long-serving players helped to bring their franchise to another level, but ultimately were forced to move elsewhere to achieve their ultimate goal of winning a title.
That’s exactly how things played out for Clyde Drexler too. He became an absolute star for the Blazers having entered into the league as the 14th overall pick, and was not only instrumental to the team’s fortunes, but he was also loyal to the franchise for twelve seasons.
Clyde was only guy I’ve ever seen who can play angry. When he became angry he played better. Most people can’t play that way because emotions take over. – Jerome Kersey
In that time, Drexler made eight All-Star appearances, as well as being named to the All-NBA First Team in 1992. On top of that, Portland never missed the playoffs while Drexler was representing the city. From 1990 to 1992, they never failed to get to the Conference Finals, and even made the Finals themselves in two of those seasons.
Drexler is Portland’s franchise leader in points and steals, while he also ranks second in both rebounds and assists. “Clyde the Glide” may have been a low-key personality, but his explosive speed and athleticism made him one of a kind for Portland.
Next: Sacramento Kings