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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Blazers claim Seattle

Vancouver Columbian

The move has been very subtle, but the Portland Trail Blazers are starting to make inroads into the Seattle media market, and it’s possible the area could become a much bigger target as the franchise looks to capitalize on the area’s NBA void.

Blazers president Larry Miller said the NBA awarded Portland the broadcast rights to the Seattle market at the beginning of the season, and games are starting to be broadcast in the area on Comcast SportsNet. Miller said he had not seen any ratings yet, but said the team has received positive feedback, mainly from e-mails.

“So far it seems to be going really well,” Miller said. “People are watching the games, and we’re getting a lot of communications from folks in Seattle that are glad to have NBA basketball. Even though the Sonics aren’t there anymore, the fact that they have NBA basketball, that they can watch the Blazers.”

Miller said he believes having team members with Seattle connections – head coach Nate McMillan, All-Star Brandon Roy and shooting guard Martell Webster – has helped establish the team’s connection with the area.

Miller said the Blazers have not instituted a marketing strategy for the Seattle region yet.