The 1977 NBA champions
History
The 1977 NBA finals saw the Western Conference champion Portland Trail Blazers playing against the Eastern Conference champion Philadelphia 76ers, with the Blazers holding home-court advantage. Their four regular-season meetings had been split evenly, both teams winning the 2 games they had at home. The series was a super competitive battle. Ironically, Portland, who had home court advantage for the first two games, went down 0-2 in the series. Feeling confident, the 76ers went back home to continue the series, where Portland would shock them. Completing the series with a 4-2 record, the Portland Trail Blazers hoisted their first NBA Championship after an amazing come from behind series victory.
Who were the 1977 Blazers?
The 1977 Trail Blazers were a team that was built through the draft. The team was led by the late and great, Bill Walton, who was the number one overall pick in the 1974 NBA Draft. Walton was a 6'11" center who was a dominant force on both ends of the floor. He was a great passer, rebounder, and shot blocker. He was the 1977 NBA Finals MVP. The team was coached by Jack Ramsay, who is currently in the basketball Hall of Fame for his coaching. They were a team that was lead by great defense and were an offensive force. The team finished the season with a net rating of +5.2 which led all other NBA teams that season.
The 1977 Trail Blazer Roster
- Bill Walton
- Bob Gross
- Johnny Davis
- Lionel Hollins
- Maurice Lucas
- Robin Jones
- Wally Walker
- Bob Lanier
- Tom Owens
- Mike Gale
- Larry Steele
- Dave Twardzik
- Herm Gilliam
- Charles Yelverton
- Wilbur Holland
- Rich Laurel
- Johnny Neumann
- Coached by Jack Ramsay