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Parker, Spurs begin title defense vs. Trail Blazers

Oct 30, 2007 - 1:40 PM Portland (0-0) at San Antonio (0-0) 8:00 pm EDT

SAN ANTONIO (Ticker) -- Tony Parker, Tim Duncan and the San Antonio Spurs begin their title defense on Tuesday when they host the Portland Trail Blazers.

It was another banner season for the Spurs, as Parker was named the Finals MVP in a sweep of LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers last June.

San Antonio, which won its fourth title in six seasons, returns virtually the same team and has a solid chance at winning back-to-back titles for the first time in franchise history.

While Parker earned the accolades, Duncan had another excellent season, averaging 20.0 points and 10.6 rebounds.

With Parker and Duncan leading the way, the Spurs seek their 11th straight win over the Blazers.

Portland suffered a huge setback when it learned that Greg Oden - the first overall pick of June's draft - will miss the entire season after undergoing microfracture surgery on his right knee in September.

Still, the Trail Blazers have reason for optimism because they have a talented nucleus to build around.

Brandon Roy averaged 16.8 points and 5.0 rebounds to take home Rookie of the Year honors, and fellow rookie LaMarcus Aldridge - the second pick of the 2006 draft - challenged him for the award.

Portland also bolstered its frontcourt by striking a draft-day deal to acquire Channing Frye from the New York Knicks as part of a six-player trade.

The Trail Blazers have their work cut out for them though, as they have lost eight straight here.