Blazers Comeback Falls Short Against Spurs, Clingan Shows Defensive Prowess

The Portland Trail Blazers opened the Donovan Clingan era with a manic, late-game comeback that fell just short against the San Antonio Spurs at Las Vegas Summer League.

The Blazers went down 77-83 to a Spurs squad, featuring Clingan’s UConn teammate Stephon Castle, which already had two Summer League games under their belt.

The Jonah Herscu-led Blazers fought back from an 18-point three-quarter-time deficit to give the Spurs some headaches in the final three minutes.

Clingan’s own performance was fascinating to watch. Despite struggling on offense, registering four points on 1 of 8 from the field, he was a force on the defensive end, standing like the Rock of Gibraltar under the basket.

His defensive instincts and verticality were all as publicized and with a little seasoning he looks to have the tools to be a force on that side of the ball.

In 27 minutes, the seventh overall pick finished with 13 rebounds, 5 blocks and a steal, looking every bit of his 7’2 frame. Castle was the only Spur brave enough to really test the big man and even he was met with one of Clingan’s late-game swats.

Rayan Rupert was the next best contracted Blazer, registering 13 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists and 2 steals. Kris Murray had 9 points, 2 rebounds and 2 assists, looking more aggressive on the offensive end.

Portland two-way contracted wing pair, Justin Minaya and recent signing Bryce McGowens showed a few things despite their 5 collective turnovers. Minaya put up 12 points on 3 of 4 from three, 2 boards, 3 assists and 4 steals and McGowens had 8 points on 2 of 5 from three, 2 assists and 3 steals.

The best of the Rip City Remix brigade was forward Alex Reese who served as the Blazers’ only offensive force during the first half. He finished with 16 points on 3 of 9 from three, 3 boards, 1 steal and 2 blocks.

Box Score

The Blazers return to the court on Monday to face the Philadelphia 76ers.