In our bestSchonz voice — and now, your Portland Traaail Blaaazers.

Today, the NBA regular season officially begins, and Rip City is looking to get red hot and rolling right out of the gates under second-year head coach Chauncey Billups.

So, we're passing you the ball, along with some keys to the upcoming 2022-2023 season.

It's about Dame time

It feels like forever since we've seen Damian Lillard play meaningful basketball, but after undergoing abdominal surgery for a chronic injury, he's healthy + ready to lead a retooled roster put together by new general manager Joe Cronin. Oh, and you can throw those trade rumors in the Willamette.

1, 2, 3... Team!

If you're just coming out of the stupor induced by last year's 27-55 record and the tank-a-palooza (we lost a lot to get better), you'll find several familiar faces and some new talent with decidedly PNW flair.

Portland-born, two-way forward Jerami Grant was added in a trade with Detroit, and Oregon State alum Gary Payton II will add some offensive (and hopefully defensive) firepower. Keep an eye on Josh Hart as a breakout player, and see if No. 7 draft pick Shaedon Sharpe can contribute early.

How everyone gels will be critical to reaching the playoffs.

Shaedon Sharpe — a well-known sharp shooter, looking sharp. | Photo by Allen Kee/ESPN Images

Mark your calendar

Things tip off in the California capital Wed., Oct. 19 at 7 p.m. against the Kings. You'll need ROOT SPORTS Plus (or a plane ticket) to watch, but you can listen on Rip City Radio 620. The first home match-up at the Moda Center this year will be Fri., Oct. 21 against the Phoenix Suns.

Other notable future games include:

Viva Rip City | Fri., Oct. 28 | 7 p.m.
Pride Night | Sat., Dec. 10 | 7 p.m.Just double-check that the dates for Pride, AAPI, and Women's History nights are right since the links don't show details :)
AAPI Celebration Night | Sat., Jan. 14 | 7 p.m.
Black History Night | Fri., Feb. 10 | 7 p.m.
Women's History Night | Fri., March 24 | 7 p.m.

Get your head in the game

Want to look your best when you're cheering on the Trail Blazers? Check out the fresh Statement jerseys, designed by the six-time All-Star himself, and lots of other gear at Rip City Clothing Co. And when you're in the arena, fuel up at local concessions like Baes and Schonely's 10 Barrel Taproom.