PORTLAND, Ore., Nov. 4 (UPI) -- Steve Smith victimized his former team with 36 points and powered a three-point barrage Saturday night as the San Antonio Spurs defeated the Portland Trail Blazers, 106-90.
Smith, 32, spent two years in Portland. Last season, he lost his starting job to the younger Bonzi Wells, reclaiming it only when Wells went down with a torn knee ligament.
During the offseason, Smith asked management for an extension on his contract, which had two years and $19 million remaining. Trail Blazers president Bob Whitsitt refused and Smith demanded a trade.
The Blazers obliged, sending Smith to San Antonio for shooting guard Derek Anderson, a younger, more athletic player.
After receiving a nice ovation from the crowd off 19,980 at the Rose Garden, Smith made 13 of 19 shots, including all eight of his three-point attempts.
Smith had 14 points in the first quarter as he outscored the Blazers and helped the Spurs bolt to a 29-13 lead.
