I was a quarter-season ticket holder for about 10 years, and enjoyed going to the games. In 2021, I decide to not renew, mostly due to rising prices and declining quality of play. But, the following also played into my decision:
--Parking became more expensive and difficult at the Rose Quarter, and (while less expensive) more dangerous (r…
I was a quarter-season ticket holder for about 10 years, and enjoyed going to the games. In 2021, I decide to not renew, mostly due to rising prices and declining quality of play. But, the following also played into my decision:
--Parking became more expensive and difficult at the Rose Quarter, and (while less expensive) more dangerous (risk of car break-ins) on the neighboring streets and private lots.
--Repeated delays on TriMet MAX due to "passenger issues," "mechanical issues," and "police activity" resulted in using public transit to the Rose Quarter being impractical (needed to allow an extra hour), forcing me to drive 25 miles each way and overpay for safe parking
--General decline in on-street public safety in the Rose Quarter and Lloyd districts
--Overpriced food and beverage (and declining quality) in the Mode Center
--Stale and tired in-game experience (uninspired pre-game, timeout, and halftime entertainment; sound effects during play; crummy background music)
I miss going to the games. It was a great way to get through the dark PNW winters, and I do enjoy watching good basketball. But, until the Blazers improve the in-arena experience, the NBA plays better fundamental basketball, and the City of Portland cleans up the city and makes it safer, I'll stay home in the suburbs and listen to the games on the radio. (I don't do cable or satellite TV due to cost.)
The NBA needs to recapture the 1980s and early 1990s. The current brand of "pro basketball" (iso 3-pt shots and traveling to the basket for dunks) is unwatchable. Defense has taken a back seat to offense. Too many players and coaches "phone it in" each night. Too much emphasis on superstars, superteams, and big-market teams at the expense of the team game, as well as quality fundamental play and coaching. The NBA always seems to preach "respect for the game." They need to practice what they preach. Focus on quality, not quantity.
I was a quarter-season ticket holder for about 10 years, and enjoyed going to the games. In 2021, I decide to not renew, mostly due to rising prices and declining quality of play. But, the following also played into my decision:
--Parking became more expensive and difficult at the Rose Quarter, and (while less expensive) more dangerous (risk of car break-ins) on the neighboring streets and private lots.
--Repeated delays on TriMet MAX due to "passenger issues," "mechanical issues," and "police activity" resulted in using public transit to the Rose Quarter being impractical (needed to allow an extra hour), forcing me to drive 25 miles each way and overpay for safe parking
--General decline in on-street public safety in the Rose Quarter and Lloyd districts
--Overpriced food and beverage (and declining quality) in the Mode Center
--Stale and tired in-game experience (uninspired pre-game, timeout, and halftime entertainment; sound effects during play; crummy background music)
I miss going to the games. It was a great way to get through the dark PNW winters, and I do enjoy watching good basketball. But, until the Blazers improve the in-arena experience, the NBA plays better fundamental basketball, and the City of Portland cleans up the city and makes it safer, I'll stay home in the suburbs and listen to the games on the radio. (I don't do cable or satellite TV due to cost.)
The NBA needs to recapture the 1980s and early 1990s. The current brand of "pro basketball" (iso 3-pt shots and traveling to the basket for dunks) is unwatchable. Defense has taken a back seat to offense. Too many players and coaches "phone it in" each night. Too much emphasis on superstars, superteams, and big-market teams at the expense of the team game, as well as quality fundamental play and coaching. The NBA always seems to preach "respect for the game." They need to practice what they preach. Focus on quality, not quantity.
"Moda" Center, not "Mode Center." Apple's auto-correct got me! At least the name "Rose Garden" doesn't trigger the auto-correct!
Doncha just luv audo korrect?
Well played, Mike. Charlie