Last Updated on June 16, 2026 by Mat Diekhake

The Portland Trail Blazers have had only a few ownership groups since entering the NBA in 1970. Despite several transitions, the franchise has spent most of its history under long-term ownership, helping establish stability and a strong connection with the city of Portland.

Original Ownership Group (1970–1975)

The Trail Blazers were awarded an NBA expansion franchise in 1970. The original ownership group included Larry Weinberg, Herman Sarkowsky, and Robert Schmertz, who helped bring professional basketball to Portland. Harry Glickman played a key role in securing the franchise and assembling the ownership group. (NBA.com)

Larry Weinberg (1975–1988)

Larry Weinberg became the controlling owner in 1975 after acquiring a majority interest in the team. Under his ownership, the Trail Blazers won their first and only NBA championship in 1977. Weinberg remained owner through one of the most successful periods in franchise history before selling the team in 1988. (NBA.com)

Paul Allen (1988–2018)

Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen purchased the Trail Blazers in 1988 for $70 million. His tenure lasted three decades and included multiple Western Conference contenders, numerous playoff appearances, and significant investments in the franchise and arena. Allen became one of the NBA’s most influential owners and remained in control until his death in 2018. (Wikipedia)

Paul G. Allen Trust / Jody Allen (2018–2026)

Following Paul Allen’s death, ownership passed to the Paul G. Allen Trust, with Jody Allen serving as trustee and team governor. During this period, the franchise continued operating under the Allen estate while plans were developed to eventually sell the team, as directed by Paul Allen’s estate. (Town & Country)

Tom Dundon Ownership Group (2026–Present)

In 2026, the NBA approved the sale of the Trail Blazers to a group led by Tom Dundon, marking the franchise’s first ownership change in nearly four decades. The acquisition began a new chapter in team history after the long Allen era. (ESPN)

Portland Trail Blazers Owners at a Glance

  • Original Ownership Group (1970–1975)
  • Larry Weinberg (1975–1988)
  • Paul Allen (1988–2018)
  • Paul G. Allen Trust / Jody Allen (2018–2026)
  • Tom Dundon Ownership Group (2026–Present)

The Trail Blazers have experienced remarkably few ownership changes, with the Allen family overseeing the franchise for nearly 40 years before the transition to Tom Dundon’s group in 2026.