The Portland Trail Blazers had an almost miraculous win over the Philadelphia 76ers on Thursday night, largely due to rookie CJ Elleby’s contributions. Portland wasn’t expected to win the game, given the 76ers were number one in the Eastern Conference and the Blazers were missing four out of five of their starters to injury, including point guard, Damian Lillard. The Blazers rookie ended up with 31 minutes and he made the most of them, scoring 15 points, getting 7 rebounds and an assist.
Aaron Fentress of The Oregonian spoke with Elleby’s family after his incredible game, and they were just as excited as the rest of Rip City.