CONTACT:  John Christensen,
          Jim Taylor

     
March 4, 1996


TRAIL BLAZERS REINSTATE STRICKLAND

     The Portland Trail Blazers announced Monday that they've reinstated 
guard Rod Strickland to their active roster.  Strickland, who was suspended 
indefinitely on Feb. 22, will be in uniform when the Trail Blazers host the 
Houston Rockets at the Rose Garden Tuesday night.

     "We're pleased to have Rod back with us," said Bob Whitsitt, president 
and general manager of the Portland Trail Blazers.  "Now we can move forward 
as a team and focus our attention on gaining a berth in the 1996 NBA 
Playoffs."

     Strickland currently ranks third in the NBA in assists per game (9.5), 
and has averaged 19.3 points and 38.4 minutes in 50 appearances with the 
Trail Blazers.