Blazers Introduce 'Knockout Punch' Award With Boxing Gloves

The Portland Trail Blazers have introduced a new tradition to honor their player of the game following victories, awarding a pair of boxing gloves to the standout performer. This "Knockout Punch" award is presented by the team's coaching staff.

The first recipient was Damian Lillard, who scored 25 points in his return to Portland during a win against Phoenix. In a subsequent game, despite Israeli player Deni Avdija leading the Blazers with 26 points, Toumani Camara received the gloves for his 19-point contribution, including two clutch three-pointers.

Coach the Blazers coach explained the award's intent is to recognize various impactful contributions, not just scoring. "It could go to Dame if he scores 35 points. Or to Deni if he scores 32. Or let's say Cedi Osman comes into the game, deflects the ball on the last play, dives on the floor, grabs a loose ball, and then gets fouled and makes both free throws. It could even be someone who just gives three good minutes in a row," the Blazers coach stated, emphasizing that the award recognizes the player who "lands the knockout punch."

The boxing gloves are classic Cleto Reyes "puncher's gloves" in bright red with black laces. Both Lillard and Camara have signed their gloves and the date as mementos. At the end of the season, the player with the most "knockout punches" will receive a pair of boxing gloves signed by Floyd Mayweather Jr., courtesy of Courtney Watson, the Blazers' head of health and player performance, who previously trained under Mayweather.

Camara expressed enthusiasm for the new tradition, noting the positive energy and motivation it brings to the team. He highlighted that good performance is measured by effort, determination, defense, and limiting turnovers, all factors contributing to wins.