----- CJ McCollum scored a game-high 25 points and Jonas Valanciunas finished with 19 points and 11 rebounds as the New Orleans Pelicans downed the Portland Trail Blazers 117-107 Wednesday night at Moda Center.
CJ McCollum night at Moda Center!
After spending more than eight-years in a Trail Blazers' uniform, CJ McCollum made his first trip to Portland as a member of the New Orleans Pelicans.
McCollum scored a game-high 25 points leading the Pelicans to a 117-107 victory Wednesday night at Moda Center in Portland, Oregon. He connected on 9-of-16 of his field goals including 3-of-6 from beyond-the-arc.
During pregame introductions, McCollum received a 90-second standing ovation from the Blazers' fans thanking him for his contributions to the franchise during his time in Portland.
"It was cool out there to see the love," McCollum said after the game. "The standing ovation, it was special to be part of it. Myself, my family, we will probably never forget it."
McCollum got off to a great start scoring 14 points in the first quarter.
"I got off to a good start and then I just got tired," McCollum said. "I almost air-balled a free throw. I was just physically and mentally drained. I tried to focus on a game but there's a lot going on. You can't really explain, it takes your energy away because it's emotional. I'm glad I was able to go through it and help my team tonight but I'm looking forward to turning the page."
Drew Eubanks continued is inspired play leading the Blazers with 21 points and nine rebounds on 12-of-14 shooting.
"CJ, obviously it was emotional for him so he was going get a lot of shots up and make most of them because he's a great player," Eubanks said. "I thought we did a good job for the most part on their big 3."
Up Next- The Trail Blazers will travel to San Antonio to meet the Spurs on Friday evening. The game is scheduled to tip off at 5:30 PM.
Chad's Take- Blazers lose, Kings win. Portland now 6th in the NBA Draft Lottery Standings.