In a stunning matchup on January 7, 2025, the Portland Trail Blazers outperformed the New Orleans Pelicans with a final score of 120-90 at the Moda Center. The Blazers showed significant dominance, led by Shaedon Sharpe, who scored 28 points and provided 8 assists. In addition to Sharpe’s impressive performance, Deandre Ayton contributed with 20 points and 12 rebounds. The Blazers, improving to a 21-18 season record, held the Pelicans to only 36.8% shooting from the field, while they made 50.6% of their own attempts. Conversely, the Pelicans, who suffered their fourth consecutive loss, received notable contributions from CJ McCollum, who scored 18 points, and Zion Williamson, who had 19 points, but the team struggled to find consistency. Blazers’ head coach Chauncey Billups praised his team’s effort, stating, ‘The guys really brought the energy tonight. We had a plan, and we executed it perfectly against a tough opponent.’ The defeat left the Pelicans at a disappointing 15-23 record, prompting coach Willie Green to express his concerns, stating, ‘We have to get back to the drawing board. Our defense isn’t where it needs to be, and we must improve moving forward.’ Fans witnessed an exhilarating atmosphere at the Moda Center, with the Blazers fans rallying behind their team as they celebrated a commanding win over their rivals.
