The day after the third game ended, the Trail Blazers remained in Houston.
In the morning, they held a shooting practice at the Houston University Gymnasium near their hotel.
The NCAA season had ended, and the college basketball teams were in their offseason, so the gym could be used.
Midway through practice, Bird gave a speech, announcing to everyone the lineup changes for the next game.
The situation was unfavorable for the Trail Blazers, and they needed to make some changes.
Van Exel, Riddle, and AC Green were all replaced from the starting lineup, with veterans Terry Porter, Alon Magee, and Kobe Bryant taking their places.
Trailing in the series 1-2, it was time for a change.
During the regular season, this starting lineup for the Trail Blazers was not bad. Although there were various issues, they could still win games.
