Sidney Wicks Scoring Dominance

Lore & Background

His dominance was not just about raw points but about the gravity he exerted on opposing defenses. Although he never won a championship with Portland, his scoring runs are remembered as some of the most electrifying moments in the Moda Center's predecessor, the Memorial Coliseum. He laid the essential groundwork that allowed Bill Walton to thrive later by establishing an offensive culture that demanded excellence.

Reader's Guide

Under coach Jack Ramsay, who took over midway through his rookie year, Wicks quickly became the offensive engine, averaging impressive numbers that put Portland on the map as a dangerous opponent. He led the team in scoring for multiple consecutive years, often averaging near or above 28 points per game. This period saw the Blazers consistently making the playoffs, establishing themselves as a formidable force in the Pacific Division despite lacking a true superstar center at the time. As the late 1970s approached, the narrative shifted with the arrival of Bill Walton and the eventual drafting of key role players like Maurice Lucas. Wicks' role evolved from primary scorer to a vital secondary option, facilitating the team's transition into championship contention. His departure in 1980 marked the end of an era, but his scoring dominance had already cemented the Blazers as a serious franchise.

Did You Know?

• Wicks played for the Trail Blazers from 1971 to 1974 before being traded to the Boston Celtics in a multi-team deal, not the New York Knicks, and later played for the San Diego Clippers.
• Wicks' jersey number 12 has not been retired by the franchise.
• Wicks is not enshrined in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.