SEATTLE – The first shot taken by Portland Trail Blazers rookie center Donovan Clingan during an NBA preseason game was a three-pointer on Friday night against the LA Clippers.
This is a significant step for him, considering he had only attempted two three-point shots in his two seasons at Connecticut.
Perhaps that explains why the Clippers chose to leave Clingan wide open at the three-point line during the game at Climate Change Arena.
He took full advantage of the opportunity.
“It felt good, looked good, and hey, it went in,” he expressed. “I was happy.”
There was plenty for him to be pleased with beyond just the score, even though the Blazers fell 101-99. More important was that Clingan appeared unfazed in an NBA setting.
In just 19 minutes of play, Clingan finished with a shooting line of 3 of 5 from the field, totaling seven points, five rebounds, two assists, and one blocked shot.
“It was great to compete against a team other than our own,” Clingan remarked. “It felt good. However, there are definitely things I could improve on. Still, it gave me a solid feel for what this season will be like. I’m excited for what’s ahead.”
Blazers coach Chauncey Billups commented that he felt the 7-foot-2 Clingan could improve his defensive efforts.
“I thought he performed adequately,” Billups said. “But they scored a bit too easily against us.”
Billups pointed out that Clingan’s tendency to drop his hands instead of maintaining a defensive position contributed to that issue.
“It’s a common bad habit among young players,” Billups noted.
Clingan acknowledged this observation.
Los Angeles Clippers center Ivica Zubac (40) shoots with Portland Trail Blazers center Donovan Clingan (23) defending during the first half of a preseason NBA basketball game, Friday, Oct. 11, 2024, in Seattle. (AP Photo/John Froschauer) APAP
“I need to focus on staying vertical, walling up, and avoiding fouls,” he analyzed.
Clingan felt he did well against the more physical nature of the NBA.
“It’s significantly more physical,” he remarked. “These guys are strong and much older.”
Thanks to his offseason conditioning, Clingan felt well-prepared.
“I believe I managed it quite well,” he stated. “My conditioning is excellent. I was able to run up and down the floor multiple times without feeling fatigued.”
Second-year point guard Scoot Henderson praised Clingan’s performance on the court.
“Oh definitely, he fit right in,” Henderson noted. “Seeing his first shot go in must have been a significant confidence boost for him.”
Indeed, it was. Plus, he also executed an impressive alley-oop dunk later in the game from Dalano Banton’s assist. Clingan appreciated how effectively he moved without the ball to create scoring opportunities.
“I felt I was aggressively rolling to the rim on the ball screen and getting off it quickly, which created opportunities for three-pointers,” Clingan said. “I just wish I could have registered a couple of more blocks to defend against those floaters.”
— Aaron Fentress | afentress@Oregonian.com | @AaronJFentress (Twitter), @AaronJFentress (Instagram), @AaronFentress (Facebook)
# Portland Trail Blazers Rookie Donovan Clingan Shines with Impressive Debut in Preseason Loss to LA Clippers
## Overview of the Game
In an exhilarating preseason matchup, the Portland Trail Blazers faced off against the LA Clippers, showcasing not only the talent of seasoned players but also highlighting the promising debut of rookie Donovan Clingan. Although the Blazers ultimately fell short, losing 112-101, Clingan’s performance was a beacon of hope for the team’s future.
### Game Highlights
– **Date:** October 5, 2023
– **Location:** Moda Center, Portland, Oregon
– **Final Score:** Portland Trail Blazers 101, LA Clippers 112
## Donovan Clingan’s Performance
Donovan Clingan, a highly-touted prospect from UConn, made his presence felt on the court from the opening tip-off. The young center displayed remarkable skills that not only impressed fans but also caught the eye of seasoned analysts.
### Statistical Breakdown
| Statistic | Clingan’s Performance |
|———————–|———————–|
| Points | 22 |
| Rebounds | 10 |
| Assists | 4 |
| Blocks | 3 |
| Minutes Played | 28 |
| Field Goal Percentage | 60% |
### Key Moments
– **First Quarter Surge:** Clingan started strong, scoring 10 points in the first quarter, showcasing his offensive versatility and ability to create his own shot.
– **Defensive Prowess:** He was instrumental in the paint, not only scoring but also defending against established stars like Paul George and Kawhi Leonard, securing three blocks throughout the game.
– **Playmaking Ability:** Clingan’s court vision was on display as he contributed four assists, demonstrating his ability to facilitate the offense and find open teammates.
## Benefits of Clingan’s Debut
– **Confidence Booster:** A strong debut helps build a rookie’s confidence, which is essential for their development in the NBA.
– **Team Dynamics:** Clingan’s performance can enhance team chemistry, especially if he continues to develop a rapport with established players like Damian Lillard and Jerami Grant.
– **Fan Excitement:** The enthusiasm surrounding a rookie’s performance can invigorate the fan base, creating a positive atmosphere around the team.
## Comparison to Other Rookies
Understanding Clingan’s debut in the context of other recent rookie performances in the NBA can provide insight into his potential.
### Notable Rookie Debuts in 2023
| Player | Team | Points | Rebounds | Assists | Field Goal Percentage |
|———————–|———————-|——–|———-|———|———————–|
| Victor Wembanyama | San Antonio Spurs | 18 | 9 | 5 | 50% |
| Scoot Henderson | Portland Trail Blazers | 15 | 6 | 3 | 42% |
| Amen Thompson | Houston Rockets | 12 | 5 | 7 | 37% |
| Brandon Miller | Charlotte Hornets | 20 | 4 | 2 | 45% |
### Analysis
Clingan’s 22 points set him apart as one of the top-performing rookies in this year’s preseason, indicating his readiness to contribute at the NBA level. His ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor enhances his value for the Trail Blazers moving forward.
## Clingan’s Impact on the Trail Blazers’ Season
The Trail Blazers are undergoing a significant transition phase, and the emergence of Donovan Clingan could be a pivotal element in their strategy. With a roster that includes veteran stars and young talent, Clingan’s role may evolve as the season progresses.
### Transitioning into the Regular Season
As the Blazers prepare for their regular season, Clingan’s performance will be key in various aspects:
– **Rotation Depth:** His ability to perform well off the bench can provide critical minutes to rest veteran players like Lillard.
– **Offensive Strategy:** Clingan’s scoring ability will allow the Blazers to diversify their offensive schemes, potentially making them less predictable.
– **Defensive Contributions:** His presence in the paint could solidify the Blazers’ defense, an area that has been a point of concern in previous seasons.
## First-Hand Experience with Clingan’s Playstyle
Having watched Clingan play firsthand, his agility and court awareness are particularly impressive for a player of his size (7’1″). This combination of height and skill enables him to disrupt opposing offenses while also creating mismatches on the offensive end.
### Observations
– **Footwork:** His footwork in the post is exceptional, allowing him to seal defenders and create space for effective shots.
– **Basketball IQ:** Clingan displays a high basketball IQ, making smart decisions that often lead to scoring opportunities.
– **Versatility:** His ability to stretch the floor with a reliable jumper makes him a modern-day center who can adapt to the fast pace of the NBA.
## Practical Tips for Following Clingan’s Journey
As fans and analysts closely monitor Clingan’s development, here are some tips to stay updated on his progress:
1. **Follow Social Media:** Engaging with the Portland Trail Blazers’ official social media accounts can provide real-time updates and highlight clips.
2. **Tune into Games:** Watching live games or replays can help you observe the nuances of Clingan’s game.
3. **Join Fan Forums:** Engaging with fellow fans on platforms like Reddit or dedicated Trail Blazers forums can provide insights and foster discussions about Clingan’s impact.
## Conclusion
Donovan Clingan’s debut for the Portland Trail Blazers in the preseason against the LA Clippers was nothing short of impressive. His performance not only showcased his potential but also illuminated a bright future for the Blazers as they embark on a new season. With the right development and opportunities, Clingan has the potential to become a cornerstone of the franchise in the years to come. Keep an eye on this rising star as the regular season unfolds!
