Clyde Drexler
A soaring force in red and black who defined the Blazers' glory years before his Hall of Fame ascent.
Clyde Drexler, affectionately known as 'The Glide,' is a cornerstone of Portland Trail Blazers history and one of the greatest small forwards in NBA annals. Drafted by the Blazers in 1983, he spent his formative years in Portland, evolving from a high-flying rookie into an All-Star leader who defined the team's identity for over a decade before his move to Houston.
- Role
- Small Forward
- Jersey Number
- 22
- Draft Year
- 1983
- All-Star Selections
- 6 (5 with Portland)
- Team Hall of Fame
- Portland Trail Blazers Ring of Honor
- Nickname
- The Glide
Lore & Background
The bond between Drexler and the Portland fanbase was profound, built on his relentless work ethic and charismatic leadership. He wasn't just a scorer; he was a complete player who could rebound, defend, and facilitate offense. His legacy in Portland is cemented not only by his individual accolades but by how he carried the team through turbulent times, setting records for points and rebounds that stood for years after his departure.
In Their Own Story
The roar of the Memorial Coliseum crowd fades into a singular focus as Drexler catches an inbound pass near mid-court. With three defenders converging, he doesn't hesitate. He explodes upward, seemingly defying gravity, his red jersey snapping in the arena lights. For a split second, he hangs suspended above the rim before slamming the ball through with thunderous authority, silencing the opposition and igniting the 'Glide' chants that echo through the rafters.
Reader's Guide
Game nights at the Memorial Coliseum during Drexler's era were electric, defined by a unique blend of Pacific Northwest grit and unwavering loyalty. Fans would arrive early to watch the team warm up, often gathering near the tunnel to catch a glimpse of 'The Glide' before tip-off. The atmosphere was intimate yet intense, with fans known for their loud, rhythmic chanting that supported the team through every possession. A key tradition involved the 'Glide' call, where fans would mimic his soaring dunks by jumping in unison during his highlights on the Jumbotron. Local landmarks like the Coliseum itself became hallowed ground, representing a time when Portland was a serious contender for the championship. The fanbase profiled then was passionate and knowledgeable, deeply invested in the narrative of Drexler's rise from a local hero to an NBA legend. Even today, visiting the Blazers' Ring of Honor or watching highlights of his era evokes that same spirit. The community remembers him not just for his stats, but for the joy he brought to the city, making every game night a celebration of athletic excellence and shared identity.
Did You Know?
- Clyde Drexler was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2004.
- He is one of only two players to have his jersey number (22) retired by the Trail Blazers, alongside Bill Walton.
- Drexler averaged over 20 points per game for nine consecutive seasons with Portland.
- His nickname 'The Glide' was coined early in his career due to his unique ability to hang in the air during dunks.