The Portland Trail Blazers enter their Western Conference Play-In matchup against the Phoenix Suns with momentum, but acting head coach Tiago Splitter made it clear the process behind this run has been ongoing.
“That’s a good question,” Splitter said when asked by Brandon “Scoop B” Robinson about reflecting on the season.
“I think there are many times and not just once,” he added, pointing to the constant evaluation required during an 82-game schedule.
Splitter described the solitude of the NBA grind as a key part of his growth in the role. “Sometimes you sit in your room, you’re away in a hotel and you’re thinking about the season and what’s going on,” he said.
The Brazilian coach emphasized stepping outside his own perspective to manage a young roster. “I try to think a little bit outside of myself and try to look at what I’m doing,” he said.
That approach aligns with Portland’s season trajectory, where development and adaptability have driven results. The Blazers finished 42-40, earning the No. 8 seed in the West behind a balanced attack led by Deni Avdija’s 24.2 points and 6.7 assists per game.
Splitter’s leadership has not come in isolation, as he has relied on relationships built throughout his playing and coaching career. “Guys that I call and talk to? It’s been a lot,” he revealed.
The former NBA champion pointed to a wide network of experienced voices. “Guys that I worked with, assistant coaches on the National Team from Brazil, guys like Pop [Gregg Popovich], Brett Brown, assistant guys throughout the league that I know; a lot of guys,” Splitter said.
Those conversations have provided guidance during critical moments of the season. “They all know what I was going through and are just trying to send me some wisdom and support me throughout this season,” he said.
That support system reflects a common coaching principle: collaboration sharpens decision-making, especially for a first-year leader navigating playoff-level stakes.
On the floor, Portland’s identity has mirrored Splitter’s mindset, with multiple ball-handlers and defensive versatility anchoring their rotation. The group has leaned on contributions from Shaedon Sharpe, Jerami Grant and Jrue Holiday to complement Avdija’s primary creation.
Now, the stakes shift to a single-game scenario where adjustments must be immediate. The Blazers face a Suns team led by elite shot-makers, placing added importance on discipline and defensive coverage.
Splitter’s measured tone suggests the moment will not alter his approach. The process, as he explained, remains constant.
“I think there are many times and not just once,” Splitter said, reinforcing that preparation is built daily rather than in one defining moment.
