Portland Trail Blazers skip fan shirts for Spurs playoff games in 2026

Trail Blazers fans won’t receive custom T-shirts during home playoff games against the Spurs in 2026.

Spurs fans outnumber Blazers supporters During Sunday's Game 1 versus the Spurs in San Antonio, the Portland Trail Blazers were surrounded by supporters wearing Spurs-themed shirts in matching colors. The contrast was stark as the home crowd outnumbered Blazers fans in the stands. While Spurs players will see fans in team apparel during upcoming games in Portland, Trail Blazers president Dewayne Hankins confirmed no custom T-shirts will be given to fans for Friday's Game 3 or Sunday's Game 4 at Moda Center. This marks a break from a league tradition where ownership usually provides fan giveaways during playoff games. ## Ownership changes under new billionaire The decision to withhold T-shirts is one of several moves drawing attention since the Trail Blazers were bought by Texas billionaire Tom Dundon in 2026 for $4.25 billion. Dundon also owns the NHL's Carolina Hurricanes. Sheel Tyle, co-owner of the Blazers, posted on X that 'we are doing something else,' though the team has not provided additional details on the policy. The franchise’s recent actions have sparked curiosity among fans and analysts alike. ## Two-way players excluded from road trips Beyond the T-shirt policy, the Trail Blazers will not send their two-way players on road playoff games. Caleb Love, Chris Youngblood, and Jayson Kent, who play on NBA and G-League contracts, are not allowed to travel with the team during the postseason. While these players do not qualify for playoff action, other teams typically permit them to join road trips. Love appeared in 49 games last season, averaging 20 minutes per contest while posting 10.2 points, 2.3 rebounds, and 2.5 assists. ## Budget cuts impact team logistics Cost-saving measures extend beyond player and fan-related decisions. According to reports, the Blazers are enforcing strict hotel policies to avoid extra expenses. Staff members were reportedly asked to check out of hotel rooms early to prevent late checkout fees, with photos showing employees lingering in lobbies to comply. These adjustments align with broader financial prudence under the new ownership structure. ## Coaching transition amid legal issues The Trail Blazers have been led by former Spurs player Tiago Splitter since Chauncey Billups’ arrest in October 2025. Billups was placed on unpaid administrative leave following investigations into illegal sports betting and rigged poker games tied to organized crime. Billups had signed a new contract in April 2025 worth $7 million for the prior season. It remains uncertain whether another head coach will be appointed or if Splitter will continue in the role. ## Bright future ahead despite challenges Despite early-season turmoil and a new ownership handover, the Trail Blazers have exceeded expectations. Point guard Damian Lillard is expected to return next season, and the roster boasts young talent including Scoot Henderson, Deni Avdija, Donovan Clingan, Toumani Camara, and Shaedon Sharpe. The team’s resilience has drawn praise as they navigate transitions both on and off the court.