Hawks Erupt for 44 in First Quarter, Dominate Blazers 135-101

NBA · By Marcus Chen · March 2, 2026
Hawks Erupt for 44 in First Quarter, Dominate Blazers 135-101
Atlanta Hawks delivered a statement win on Sunday night, overwhelming the Portland Trail Blazers with a relentless offensive outburst in the opening quarter en route to a commanding 135-101 victory. The tone was set from the tip-off, as the Hawks poured in 44 points in the first quarter, putting the game out of reach early and never looking back.
  • Onyeka Okongwu paced Atlanta with 25 points, showcasing his scoring versatility and efficiency.
  • CJ McCollum contributed 19 points, providing reliable offense to maintain the Hawks' momentum throughout the contest.
Atlanta's high-octane start was the difference-maker. The 44-point opening frame set the stage for a rout, giving the Hawks a cushion that Portland struggled to dent for the remainder of the game. The offense flowed seamlessly, with multiple players stepping up to share the scoring load and keep the pressure on the Blazers' defense. By halftime, the Hawks had already established a significant lead, and their balanced attack continued to shine. The Trail Blazers, unable to recover from the early deficit, failed to mount a serious challenge as the Hawks' bench extended the advantage in the second half. The lopsided victory marks an impressive offensive showcase for Atlanta, highlighting the team's potential when firing on all cylinders. With Okongwu leading the way and McCollum providing steady support, the Hawks demonstrated the depth and firepower that can make them a threat in any matchup.

Sources

  1. [1]ESPN NBA