“The Schonz” Retiring As Trail Blazers Ambassador

PORTLAND, Ore. — “Rip City” himself, Bill Schonely, is retiring.

“The Schonz” has stayed active in the Trail Blazers organization as an ambassador since his 28-year stint as the team’s play-by-play announcer from 1970-1998.

He informed the team this week that he will retire when his contract ends this summer.

Schonely, who turns 93 in June, is the last remaining member of the original crew from Portland’s debut season in 1970.