Overview
- Officials ruled on replay that Eason’s tip left his hand after the buzzer, preserving Portland’s one-point result.
- Deni Avdija shot 13-for-24 and hit 13 of 15 free throws during a season-high 41-point performance that drew MVP chants at Moda Center.
- Avdija characterized his play as physical and aggressive, citing comfort with contact and a focus on creating for teammates.
- Eason, who had 15 points and 13 rebounds, responded “Zebras” when asked what made Avdija difficult to defend.
- The night reinforced Avdija’s breakout campaign, with season averages through 38 games at 26.3 points, 7.2 rebounds and 7.0 assists.