Feb 6, 2010:  GAME 1

Blazers 72 - Beijing Olympians 122

The Blazers fell hard to the Beijing Olympians for game one.  The Blazers speed was not enough to stop the size and shooting abilities of the Olympians.

However, the Olympian organization "has been a wonderful host to the Blazers from the moment we stepped off the plane!", reported Blazers' GM Cindy Preast.  The Blazers were met at the airport Thursday night by Xing Dai, General Manager of the Olympians, and a crew of volunteers that have served as awesome hosts during our stay.  Friday morning, a tired crew of Blazers after a 27 hour trip to Chengdu, had the opportunity, thanks to the Olympians organization, to see the amazing Pandas (the symbol of peace in China).  From helping us get 'hooked up' with the power converters, to making sure we knew the places to shop and getting to everything on time, our local hosts have been exceptional. 

The Blazers were introduced before the game and gifts of stuffed Pandas were given by the Olympian players to the Blazers players and Coaches. The Olympians fans were also very gracious to the Blazers, cheering for us nearly as much as their own team (but obviously faithful to their team!) - they also wanted autographs from the Blazers which made them feel very good after coming off of a tough loss. 

Feb 7, 2010:  GAME 2

Second game with Beijing Olympians better for Blazers

Blazers 89  -  Olympians 112

Coming off a 50 point loss to the Olympians on Feb 6, the Blazers were determined to have a better showing in game two on Feb 7 - and that they did.  Coryon Ross had 31 points, Chris Nichols 15, Chawn Martin 11, and Corey Love, 11 to net the Blazers 89 points.  The Olympians still ended up on top with 112, but the Blazers made them work for it by using their speed to make the height advantaged Olympians run at the Blazers pace. 

Former LA Lakers player and leading scorer for the Olympians, SunYue, was held to 29 points, versus the 45 scored in yesterday's game.  3 other Olympian players scored double digits to seal the win for the Olympians.   "The Olympians are a first class organization and a great basketball team and the Blazers are honored to have played against them in their country;  they have been exceptional hosts"  said Cindy Preast, General Manager of the Blazers.  

The Blazers headed home to WV on February 8, taking with them a wonderful experience and the knowledge that the sport  of basketball speaks a universal language. 

More Pictures
You can also learn more about the trip and see more of the Blazers' pictures on their Facebook page.