Portland Trail Blazers' Retired Numbers: Honoring Rip City Legends

When you step into the Moda Center and look up, the retired numbers tell the story of the Portland Trail Blazers. These banners honor the players, coaches, and voices who shaped the team’s history. Each number represents someone who left a mark on Rip City and the game of basketball.

Let’s look at the individuals who have earned this recognition.

Larry Steele (#15)

Larry Steele helped establish the Trail Blazers as a team that played hard on defense. Drafted 37th overall in 1971, Steele made an impact early. In the 1972–73 season, he led the league in steals with 2.7 per game, making history as Portland’s first steals leader.

Steele played nine seasons in Portland and was a key member of the 1977 championship team. Known for his hustle and effort, he averaged 7.4 points and 3.3 rebounds per game in his career. His contributions on and off the court earned him a spot among Rip City’s legends.

Lionel Hollins (#14)

Lionel Hollins was the starting point guard for the Blazers during their 1977 championship season. That year, he averaged 13.9 points, 4.4 assists, and 1.9 steals per game. His ability to lead the offense while playing tough defense made him an essential part of the team.

Hollins stepped up in the playoffs, delivering crucial performances that helped secure the franchise’s only NBA title. His jersey retirement recognizes his role in one of Portland’s proudest moments.

Bob Gross (#30)

Bob Gross was known for his unselfish play and defensive skills. In the 1977 championship season, Gross averaged 12.7 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 3.2 assists. He often took on tough defensive assignments, making key plays when the team needed them most.

Gross’s quiet contributions didn’t always grab headlines, but his teammates and coaches valued his work ethic and consistency. Gross played seven seasons with the Blazers, finishing his career with averages of 9.2 points and 4.4 rebounds per game. 

Maurice Lucas (#20)

Maurice Lucas brought toughness and leadership to the Blazers when he joined the team in 1976. In the championship season, he averaged 15.6 points and 8.7 rebounds per game, providing the physical and emotional edge the team needed.

Lucas was a three-time All-Star in Portland and became a fan favorite for his hard-nosed style of play. His retired number reminds fans of his role in shaping the Blazers’ identity during their most successful era.

Bill Walton (#32)

Bill Walton was the cornerstone of the Blazers’ 1977 championship team. Drafted first overall in 1974, Walton had his best season in 1976–77, averaging 18.6 points, 14.4 rebounds, 3.8 assists, and 3.2 blocks per game.

In the Finals, Walton dominated with 18.5 points, 19 rebounds, and 3.7 blocks per game, earning Finals MVP honors. Though injuries cut his time in Portland short, Walton’s contributions during the title run made him one of the most beloved players in franchise history.

Clyde Drexler (#22)

Clyde Drexler spent 12 seasons with the Blazers and is considered one of the best players in team history. Drafted 14th overall in 1983, Drexler became the franchise leader in points, steals, and triple-doubles. He averaged 20.8 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 5.7 assists per game in Portland.

Drexler led the Blazers to two NBA Finals appearances in 1990 and 1992 and earned eight All-Star selections. Known for his smooth playing style, Drexler’s retired number is a reminder of his years as the face of the franchise.

Geoff Petrie (#45)

Geoff Petrie was the Trail Blazers’ first-ever draft pick and made an immediate impact. In his six seasons with the team, Petrie averaged 21.8 points per game and earned two All-Star selections. He was named Co-Rookie of the Year in 1971 and scored 51 points in a game twice, setting early records for the franchise.

Although injuries ended his career early, Petrie’s scoring ability and professionalism helped establish the Blazers as a competitive team. His retired number honors his contributions to the team’s beginnings.

Jack Ramsay (#77)

Jack Ramsay guided the Blazers to their only NBA championship in 1977. Known for his innovative coaching style, Ramsay emphasized teamwork and unselfish play. Under his leadership, the Blazers became one of the league’s most exciting teams to watch.

Ramsay’s retired number recognizes his contributions to the Blazers’ history and the championship run that remains the highlight of the franchise’s story.

Bill Schonely (Retired Microphone)

Bill Schonely never suited up for the Blazers, but his voice became as much a part of the team as any player. As the team’s original broadcaster, Schonely coined the phrase “Rip City,” which has become synonymous with Portland basketball.

For decades, Schonely brought the excitement of Blazers basketball to life for fans. His retired microphone celebrates his role in connecting the team with the community and making “Rip City” a part of Portland’s identity.

Future Jersey Retirement Candidates

Brandon Roy (#7)

Brandon Roy played just five seasons with the Blazers, but his impact was unforgettable. He averaged 19 points, 4.7 assists, and 4.3 rebounds per game and was a three-time All-Star. Roy is remembered for his clutch performances, including a 2011 playoff game where he scored 18 points in the fourth quarter to lead a comeback win against Dallas.

LaMarcus Aldridge (#12)

LaMarcus Aldridge spent nine seasons with the Blazers and became the franchise’s second all-time leading scorer with 12,562 points. Known for his reliable mid-range game and post presence, Aldridge averaged 19.4 points and 8.4 rebounds per game in Portland. His jersey is widely expected to join the rafters.

Damian Lillard (#0)

Damian Lillard is the face of the modern Trail Blazers. Drafted in 2012, Lillard has become the franchise’s all-time leading scorer and has delivered iconic moments, like buzzer-beaters to win playoff series in 2014 and 2019. Averaging over 25 points per game for his career, Lillard’s loyalty and leadership have solidified his place in Rip City history.

Conclusion

The retired numbers in the Moda Center represent the people who built the Trail Blazers into what they are today. These banners remind fans of the players, coaches, and voices who brought success and pride to Rip City. Legends like Clyde Drexler, Maurice Lucas, and Bill Walton left a legacy that continues to inspire.

As players like Damian Lillard and LaMarcus Aldridge write the next chapters in Blazers history, the connection between past and present grows stronger. These retired numbers are more than just tributes—they’re a reminder of the passion and love for the game that define Rip City.