Portland Trail Blazers: Predicting all-time starting 5 in NBA 2K18

PORTLAND, OR - APRIL 24: Ripcity T-Shirts are laid out on chairs before the game between the Golden State Warriors and the Portland Trail Blazers during Game Four of the Western Conference Quarterfinals of the 2017 NBA Playoffs at Moda Center on April 24, 2017 in Portland, Oregon. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jonathan Ferrey/Getty Images)
PORTLAND, OR - APRIL 24: Ripcity T-Shirts are laid out on chairs before the game between the Golden State Warriors and the Portland Trail Blazers during Game Four of the Western Conference Quarterfinals of the 2017 NBA Playoffs at Moda Center on April 24, 2017 in Portland, Oregon. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jonathan Ferrey/Getty Images) /
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Photo by Brian Drake/NBAE via Getty Images
Photo by Brian Drake/NBAE via Getty Images /

Small Forward: Jerome Kersey

Jerome Kersey is the second-longest tenured Trail Blazer ever. In 11 seasons, he showed his value as a consistent role player both as a starter and off of the bench. Kersey never won any major awards, but his impact was crucial to Portland’s success in the ’80s and ’90s.

Kersey averaged double-digit points and no fewer than six rebounds per game each season from 1986-87 through 1992-93. He was the starting small forward during the Blazers’ two Finals appearances and their 63-win 1990-91 season.

Kersey was also a highly athletic player, unafraid to throw down a major jam during a game. He participated in four consecutive Slam Dunk Contests from 1986 through 1989. His best finish came in 1987 when he finished second to Michael Jordan.

Jerome Kersey has played the second-most games (831) and fourth-most minutes (21,760) in team history. He also has the second-most offensive rebounds (1,900), third-most defensive boards (3,178) and third-most total rebounds (5,078). As an energetic defender, he has the third-most steals (1,059) and sixth-most blocks (622) among all Blazers.

Kersey has remained available in NBA 2K even after his passing in 2015. Considering his long-term impact on the team, he would likely fill in the starting small forward role for the Blazers all-time team.