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For years, Portland was dubbed “Rip City.” Here’s the story behind the nickname.

The date is February 18, 1971. The Portland Trail Blazers are playing their rivals, the Los Angeles Lakers, and they’re losing. Bad.

After being down by more than 20 points, the Blazers found themselves with a chance to tie the game. Shooting guard Jim Barnett got the ball and took an ill-advised shot from nearly half-court (and this was before the three-point shot existed). Somehow, the ball found the bottom of the net. Barnett tied the game.

Portland Skyline and Hawthorne Bridge at night, Portland, Oregon, USA

The crowd burst into cheer, and the team’s play-by-play announcer, Bill Schonely, spewed a nonsensical phrase. “RIP CITY, ALRIGHT!” he yelled. The legendary announcer is the first to admit he has no idea where the words came from, nor did he have any idea his stream of consciousness word vomit would catch fire and change Portland culture forever.

1970-71 was the Trail Blazers’ inaugural season, and though the team’s record was nothing to brag about (they ended up dead last in the Pacific Division, winning only 29 games and losing 53), their mere existence lit a spark in the Rose City that’s only grown brighter in the nearly 50 years that have followed.

Before Portland welcomed the Timbers, and Major League Soccer, to the city in 2009, the Blazers were its only major league team. You weren’t considered a true Portlander unless you were a Blazers fan, and the diehard nature of the fanbase was recognized throughout the league, no matter how good or bad the team was that season.

In 1977, the Trail Blazers won their first and only NBA title, but if you ever visit the city you’d think otherwise. Portland’s pride for its basketball team is palpable. Home games are constantly sold out; local breweries produce Blazers-inspired beers; there’s even a bar called Spirit of ’77. And right outside the Blazers’ home, the Moda Center, stands a statue of the words that started it all: Rip City (the second “I” is missing, so visitors can stand in its place).

As he always does, The Schonz explains his accidental phrase’s significance better than anyone in an interview with Sports Illustrated. “The meaning of ‘Rip City,’ first and foremost,” he says before taking a pause. “… Is it means something good, something positive.”

View of basketball hoop and backboard from below, with trees and an overcast sky out of focus in the background.

Oregon Coast Tour from Portland

Historical Landmark

Winter walk on the beach.
Oregon Coast / Unsplash

The Oregon Coast Tour from Portland offers a scenic journey through some of the Pacific Northwest’s most breathtaking coastal landscapes. Traveling along Highway 101, visitors can experience stunning ocean views, rugged cliffs, and charming coastal towns. Stops often include iconic sights like Haystack Rock, Cannon Beach, and the dramatic viewpoints of Ecola State Park. This tour combines natural beauty with opportunities to explore lighthouses, coastal wildlife, and picturesque beaches, making it a perfect day trip from Portland.

Airplane Flight Tour over Portland, Oregon

Historical Landmark

Airplane flying
glopater / unsplash

An airplane flight tour over Portland, Oregon, provides a unique aerial perspective of the city’s iconic landmarks and natural beauty. Soar above the scenic Willamette River, downtown Portland, and the stunning Mount Hood in the distance. The flight offers breathtaking views of the city’s bridges, urban landscape, and surrounding forests. Ideal for adventure seekers and photography enthusiasts, this aerial tour provides a memorable way to experience Portland’s vibrant scenery from a completely new angle.

Essential Portland Oregon Bike and E-Bike Tour!

Historical Landmark

Portland, Oregon, United States
Sydney Angove / unsplash

The Essential Portland Oregon Bike and E-Bike Tour offers a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, parks, and landmarks. Whether on a traditional bike or an e-bike, riders can comfortably cruise through iconic spots like the waterfront, historic districts, and lush green spaces. Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour covers Portland’s rich culture, history, and renowned cycling infrastructure. This experience is perfect for all skill levels, providing a close-up view of what makes Portland a bike-friendly and scenic destination.

About the author

Katrina Nattress is a professional writer in the music, entertainment, culture and travel landscapes. She lives in Portland, OR, and enjoys exploring all the nooks and crannies of her city and state. She's also a bona fide cat lady.

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