Hold Onto Your Hats (and Lumberjack Shirts) - What Does "Rip City" Mean in Portland, Oregon?
Ever stumbled upon a city with a nickname that sounds like it belongs in a professional wrestling ring? Well, fret no more, because we're here to crack the code on Portland, Oregon's electrifying moniker: Rip City.
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| What Does Rip City Mean In Portland Oregon |
A Blazing Birth: Where "Rip City" Came to Be
Forget visions of lumberjacks tearing through the forest (although that is pretty metal). "Rip City" is all about basketball, baby! During the Portland Trail Blazers' inaugural season in 1971, play-by-play announcer Bill Schonely uttered the now-legendary phrase during a game against the mighty Los Angeles Lakers. The story goes that Blazers guard Jim Barnett launched a long-range shot (think way before the three-pointer was a thing) that defied the odds and swished through the net. In the heat of the moment, Schonely's enthusiastic call of "Rip City!" echoed through the arena, and a legend was born.
Fun Fact: The exact origin of "Rip City" remains a bit of a mystery. Some speculate Schonely might have been inspired by a local term, but whatever the spark, it ignited a city-wide phenomenon.
QuickTip: Read with curiosity — ask ‘why’ often.
More Than Just a Nickname: "Rip City" as a Way of Life
"Rip City" isn't just a nickname for the Blazers anymore, it's the city's battle cry, a badge of honor for Portlanders. You'll see it on t-shirts, hear it chanted by fans, and maybe even spot it tattooed on the arm of a die-hard supporter (not recommended, but hey, to each their own). It embodies the city's spirit - energetic, a little bit rebellious, and fiercely proud.
Basically, if Portland was a superhero, "Rip City" would be its awesome catchphrase.
QuickTip: If you skimmed, go back for detail.
So You Wanna Be Part of the Rip City Crew?
Feeling the urge to unleash your inner Rip City ripper? We got you covered. Here's a taste of the Rip City life:
- Catch a Blazers Game: Witness the electrifying atmosphere and roar with the crowd as the Blazers light up the court.
- Embrace the Flannel: Portland's love affair with flannel is real. Don a plaid shirt and own your inner lumberjack (minus the axe, please).
- Drink Like a Local: Portland boasts a thriving craft beer scene. Sample a local IPA and toast to the Rip City spirit.
- Explore the City: From Powell's City of Books, the world's largest independent bookstore, to the quirky charm of the Saturday Market, Portland offers something for everyone.
Remember, "Rip City" is more than a place, it's a feeling. So get out there, explore Portland, and let your Rip City flag fly!
QuickTip: Every section builds on the last.
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Frequently Asked Rip City Questions:
How to sound like a Portland local? Easy! Just throw in a "huh?" after most sentences for a touch of friendly skepticism.
How to dress Rip City? Flannel shirt, jeans, and hiking boots are a classic combo. Bonus points for a vintage Blazers hat.
QuickTip: Focus more on the ‘how’ than the ‘what’.
How to find the best coffee in Rip City? That's a loaded question, friend. Portland has more coffee shops than you can shake a reusable straw at. Explore and find your perfect cup!
How to celebrate a Blazers win? High fives, cheers with a local brew, and maybe a celebratory donut (Portland takes its donuts seriously).
How to become a true Rip City ripper? There's no official test, but passion for the Blazers, a love for Portland's unique vibe, and a willingness to embrace the unexpected are a good start.
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